CALIFORNIA — Growing marijuana in any quantity for recreational use is a felony in California. But it could be charged as a misdemeanor if a bill moving through the state Assembly becomes law. CALIFORNIA — Growing marijuana in any quantity for recreational use is a felony in California. But it could be charged as a misdemeanor if a bill moving through the state Assembly becomes law.

The measure would change marijuana growing from a mandatory felony to a so-called "wobbler" offense. That would give district attorneys the discretion to charge it as either a felony or a misdemeanor.

Joe Elford is chief counsel for the advocacy group Americans for Safe Access. He said the bill would not affect medical marijuana patients who grow pot.

"Whether they're charged with a felony or charged with a misdemeanor," Elford said, "they shouldn't end up being convicted in either case, because they are medical marijuana patients, and that is already legal under state law."

Supporters argue it's a waste of money to send people to state prison for growing marijuana. Opponents point out it's still illegal under federal law.