French Lawmaker Proposes Hefty Fines for Cannabis Use to Combat Trafficking
French lawmaker Christelle D’Intorni proposes increased fines for cannabis use, aiming to curb trafficking, but sparking debate over effectiveness and fairness
Key Points
- 1Christelle D’Intorni proposes increasing cannabis fines to 10,000 euros
- 2The proposal includes measures like vehicle confiscation and revocation of benefits
- 3Critics argue the fines disproportionately affect young people from suburbs
- 4The proposal emphasizes law enforcement over health strategies
- 5Uncertainty remains over whether the proposal will pass in the National Assembly
In a bold legislative move, French lawmaker Christelle D’Intorni, representing the Les Républicains party, has proposed a significant increase in penalties for cannabis consumption. Currently, those caught using or possessing cannabis in public face a fine of 150 euros, provided they meet certain conditions, such as carrying identification and being of legal age. However, D’Intorni argues that these measures are insufficient deterrents and aims to create a 'shock effect' to curb cannabis-related crime
D’Intorni’s proposal suggests raising the fine to 10,000 euros for first-time offenders and 15,000 euros for repeat offenders. Additionally, she advocates for the confiscation of vehicles used in the purchase of illicit substances and the revocation of scholarships and family allowances for parents of minors caught reoffending. This initiative seeks to strengthen the punitive measures against cannabis consumption, which is currently punishable by up to one year in prison and a 3,750 euro fine under French law
The proposal has sparked debate about its effectiveness and fairness, particularly given that only 34% of current fines are paid. Critics point out that these fines disproportionately affect young people from suburban areas and have not significantly reduced cannabis usage. The proposal will be presented to Gérald Darmanin, the Minister of the Interior, highlighting its focus on law enforcement rather than health-related strategies, as the Minister of Health, François Braun, is not involved in the discussions
The broader implications of this proposal could influence France’s drug policy, which has traditionally leaned towards a punitive approach. While some see it as a necessary step to combat drug trafficking, others argue it neglects the public health aspect of drug use. The proposal's focus on severe penalties without addressing addiction treatment or prevention raises questions about its potential impact on public health and social equity
As D’Intorni prepares to present her proposal, it remains uncertain whether it will gain sufficient support in the French National Assembly. The debate continues over whether increased fines will effectively deter cannabis use or merely serve as a financial burden on certain demographics. The proposal underscores the ongoing tension in France between punitive measures and more progressive drug policies