Tas Greens open marijuana debate

By Edwina Foster and Natalie Woodlock

HOBART — While the success of the Tasmanian Greens' draft legislation to decriminalise the use of marijuana is doubtful, the proposed legislation has opened up a number of debates within the community, including whether or not a "school drugs plan" aimed at education instead of jail terms, should be introduced into high schools and colleges.

Currently the use, possession, growing and trafficking of marijuana is illegal, and individuals face penalties of up to $3000 for possession, $4000 for growing, or jail sentences of two years for either offence. Pipes and bongs are also banned, and under the current law police have draconian powers to search suspected premises and conduct body cavity searches without warrants.

The Tasmanian Green's bill would abolish these laws and implement on-the-spot fines for possession of up to 50 grams.

Although it opposes the bill, the Tasmanian Principals' Forum has argued that first-time high school marijuana users not be given a criminal record, but attend compulsory health and education programs. Hutchins Boys School principal John Bednall, well known for his recent stand against high school students holding hands in schools, is leading this move with the backing of the state government, parents and sections of the police and health workers.

Edwina Foster, a high school Resistance activist supports the bill, but thinks that the schools' drug plan has one major flaw. "By having the police and state government involved and students excluded the programs will become programs of intimidation, not education."

From GLW issue 235