PROVIDENCE, R.I.—Legislation that would decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana in Rhode Island could be heading to a vote soon in the state's General Assembly.

Two legislative committees voted Tuesday to advance the legislation to the floors of the House of Representatives and Senate. Lawmakers in those chambers could vote on the measure as early as this week.

The proposal would replace criminal penalties for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana with a $150 civil fine. Minors caught with pot would also have to complete a drug awareness program and community service.

Current law makes possession of small amounts of marijuana a misdemeanor. Violators face possible jail time and fines up to $500.

Similar legislation has failed to pass in previous years.

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