(JNS) Israeli lawmakers are set to decriminalize cannabis use for the first three times someone is caught using the drug for personal use.
According to the bill, a person caught using cannabis would pay a fine of NIS 1,000 for the first offense, NIS 2,000 for second offense if done within the five years of the first, and a "conditional arrangement" for the third offense that requires the person to pay a fine or do community service, instead of facing criminal charges, reported The Jerusalem Post.
However, children under 18, prisoners and previous criminal offenders are not covered by the new law, which is slated to take effect for only three years so it can be observed and studied.
Security Minister Gilad Erdan praised the law, saying he "hopes and believes that the law will prevent unnecessary incrimination of civilians, while also minimizing cannabis consumption, especially for our youth."
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