DJ Hilson

MUSKEGON COUNTY, MI - The Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office is dropping some pending marijuana cases following the vote to legalize recreational use.

In addition, the office of Prosecutor D.J. Hilson will consider expunging any past marijuana convictions that otherwise would have complied with the new law, according to a press release from Hilson's office issued Wednesday afternoon.

All marijuana cases that comply with the "Proposal 1" requirements are being "dismissed outright," the press release states.

It was not immediately clear how many cases would be impacted by the decision.

Those that don't comply with Proposal 1 will be reduced to penalties called for in the proposal that was approved by voters on Nov. 6.

The law allows an individual to have up to 2.5 ounces on their person, and up to 10 ounces at home. Up to 15 grams of it can be marijuana concentrate.

If a person has more than 2.5 ounces of marijuana at home, it has to be locked up when stored.

Across Michigan, elected prosecutors are reviewing pending marijuana cases in light of the pending legalization of recreational marijuana for adults 21 and over. Several, including the Kent County prosecutor, have already decided to dismiss cases.

The law doesn't take effect until 10 days after election results are certified, which likely will occur in mid-December.

Hilson, president of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan, was an outspoken opponent of the proposal, which was approved by 56 percent of voters.

"This has caused a disaster for other states, and will ultimately be a disaster for Michigan," Hilson said in a prepared statement prior to the election.

However, the press release states that, "Our office has always strongly advocated that illegal use or possession of small quantities of marijuana should not result in incarceration, but rather treatment programs for those struggling with substance abuse."

Hilson's office stressed that people who provide marijuana to those who are underage.