RI Latino PAC Supports AG Neronha’s Bill to Reclassify Simple Drug Possession

RI Latino PAC Supports AG Neronha’s Bill to Reclassify Simple Drug Possession

The Rhode Island Latino Political Action Committee (RILPAC) announced its support Tuesday for legislation introduced by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha to reclassify simple drug possession from a felony to a misdemeanor. The legislation is set to be introduced by Senator Michael McCaffrey in the Rhode Island Senate. 

“Attorney General Neronha, by introducing this legislation is delivering on the promises he made while campaigning for the position,” said Joseph Molina Flynn, President of RILPAC. “We also commend Senator McCaffrey for continuing to sponsor legislation in the Senate that addresses key concerns in the Rhode Island Latinx community. This is a sign of positive change which will apply principles of equity to the administration of criminal justice in Rhode Island, a much-needed departure from the way things have been done in the past. RILPAC commends A.G. Neronha for introducing this key legislation.” 

Neronha, State Leaders on Legislation

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Currently, simple possession for personal use—of 1 ounce or less of a controlled substance other than marijuana—is a felony under Rhode Island law, punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Marijuana possession of similar amounts is a civil violation.
 
“It’s time we recognize—like many other states have—that simple drug possession is not felony conduct,” said Attorney General Neronha. “This common-sense reform will reduce the impact that drug addiction or a conviction can have on a Rhode Islander’s ability to get a job, find housing, and turn his or her life around. And, importantly, we need to re-focus our law enforcement resources on stopping violent crime and drug dealers, instead of over-criminalizing users and those suffering from addiction.”
 
“Many times simple possession charges are the result of another underlying issue, such as substance abuse or mental health,” said Senate Majority Leader Michael J. McCaffrey (D-Dist. 29, Warwick). “Felony charges – let alone convictions – can often send an individual’s life into a tailspin from which it is very difficult to recover. This reclassification legislation underscores our state’s commitment to criminal justice reform by prioritizing public health and more efficiently using public safety resources.”

The legislation has the support of Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare; Parent Support Network of Rhode Island Executive Director Lisa Conlon; the Substance Use Policy, Education, and Recovery PAC; Amos House; the Latino Policy Institute at Roger Williams University; RICares; Housingworks RI, and numerous healthcare professionals.