Marijuana laws in Texas are typically some of the strictest in the United States. Possessions of even small amounts can get you in trouble being classified as a criminal offense. However, in recent years, there has been increasing pressure to decriminalize marijuana in Texas, with many arguing that the current laws are overly harsh.

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According to Forbes, a big step was taken last week as the Texas House of Representatives approved a bill to decriminalize the possession of marijuana in small amounts. House Bill 218 was green-lighted by members with a voice vote.

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Photo: Canva
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This bill would remove criminal measures for the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana or cannabis concentrate. This would now turn into a Class C Misdemeanor punishable by a ticket and not subject to arrest. These citations can still pack a punch in your pocketbook carrying some hefty fines.

That's not all this bill would accomplish. The legislation also reduces the possession of between one to two ounces of weed to a Class B Misdemeanor which is not subject to arrest. The possession of between two and four ounces would be reduced to a Class A Misdemeanor. You get the picture.

House Bill 218 also calls for the expungement of past marijuana convictions.

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Photo: Canva
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It sure seems like things could be going a greener direction in Texas. As of now, the possession of up to two ounces of pot will get you slapped with a Class B Misdemeanor. Two to four ounces is a Class A Misdemeanor subject to up to a year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000.

The next stop for the bill is the Texas Senate which could prove to be a tough challenge. Similar legislation that has passed the House in the past has always failed to gain approval from the state Senate. Only time will tell if things will get a little greener in Texas.

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