

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Despite the passage of a charter amendment decriminalizing marijuana, Grand Rapids Police Chief Kevin Belk said police will continue to enforce state marijuana laws.

“The Police Department is currently seeking further information from the City Attorney about legal issues surrounding this charter amendment,” Belk said in an email Wednesday, Nov. 7.

“Until further direction from the City Attorney or City Manager is received the Police Department will continue to enforce the state law.”

He said the City Attorney’s Office has advised that election results aren’t final until certified by the Board of Canvassers.

“Therefore, the earliest date on which a charter amendment could become effective would be the date on which the Board of Canvassers issues its certification.”

The charter amendment means those possessing marijuana in the city aren’t subject to a misdemeanor charge. Instead, they will face civil infractions: a fine of $25 for first offense, and, eventually a maximum of $100 for multiple subsequent offenses.

While voters approved, Belk, before the election, raised concerns.

Belk said earlier it will increase the number of drug users, and make it harder for them to find jobs if they can’t pass a drug test.

“It’s an addictive substance and it will have negative consequences for people that use it regularly. It’ll make it more difficult for more young people to get employment. I don’t think we’re doing our young people any favors by making it easier to use marijuana.”

E-mail John Agar: jagar@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/grpressagar