The State College Borough Council will discuss a resident’s proposal to enact a civil penalty for those caught with marijuana.
Luis Rolfo pitched the idea to council last month. He wants to see them enact this ordinance to give police a second option for punishment.
It wouldn’t stop police from arresting someone for possession and filing criminal charges, nor does this legalize marijuana. Instead, the ordinance would give borough police the option of citing someone who is in possession of a small amount of marijuana, instead of arresting them.
Rolfo believes this would keep jails less crowded. He also said it will keep students from losing their FAFSA student aid if they’re convicted of a drug-related offense.
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have passed similar ordinances.
Council will discuss the proposal at their meeting Monday night at 7:00 p.m. If council decides to move forward, a public hearing will be scheduled.