A new law in Louisiana will increase penalties for marijuana use near schools and college campuses, starting August 1. The measure, passed by the Louisiana Legislature and signed by Gov. Jeff Landry, increases the maximum penalty for marijuana use within designated drug-free zones to up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Local Impact
The law also delineates drug-free zones around schools and campuses to a 2,000-foot radius, giving law enforcement broader authority to make arrests for violations in those areas. Shreveport Police Department PIO Cpl. Chris Bordelon said the law changes how officers can respond to marijuana use near campuses.
The bill’s House sponsor said the legislation is intended to give law enforcement and prosecutors stronger tools when someone is openly smoking or vaping marijuana or other illegal drugs within a school zone. Marijuana advocates have criticized the legislation, arguing it unfairly targets marijuana users.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
