Yesterday marked a great day for the advancement of cannabis legalization, as both the states of Hawaii and New Mexico voted in favor of bills that will dramatically reduce the punishment for marijuana possession.

A senate committee in Hawaii gave unanimous approval to Senate Bill 472, which would make possession of less than one ounce of marijuana a civil violation with a maximum fine of $100.

Under Hawaii's current state law, possession is treated as a petty misdemeanor, which can incur a penalty of up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Meanwhile in the contiguous U.S., a New Mexico House committee gave a recommendation to House Bill 465, which would eliminate jail sentences for adults in possession of small amounts of cannabis.

These bills are adding up to the possible watershed moment that the marijuana reform movement hopes to establish this year.

Today, Rhode Island's House Judiciary Committee is holding a hearing to discuss the state's Marijuana Regulation, Control, and Taxation act, which would not only legalize marijuana, but would also implement regulation and taxation similar to alcohol.

Oregon has also introduced House Bill 3371 today, which would establish a regulatory system similar to Rhode Island's proposal.

To check if your state is legislating any marijuana reform laws, please visit NORML.