Ward County Sheriff opposes North Dakota marijuana decriminalization bill citing public concerns

In a recent meeting of the North Dakota Senate Judiciary Committee, lawmakers engaged in a heated discussion regarding a proposed bill aimed at decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana. The meeting, held on April 7, 2025, highlighted significant divisions among law enforcement officials and lawmakers about the implications of the bill, particularly in light of previous voter rejections of marijuana legalization.

The central issue at hand was whether the proposed legislation, which would treat possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana as a non-criminal infraction, aligns with the will of North Dakota voters. Several law enforcement representatives voiced strong opposition, arguing that the bill undermines the state's stance on controlled substances. Captain Jason Craft of the Ward County Sheriff’s Department emphasized that decriminalizing marijuana sends the wrong message, especially since voters have rejected recreational use three times. He pointed out that the current system, which allows for citations without court appearances for minor infractions, already provides a streamlined process without the need for decriminalization.

Senator Cory raised concerns about the bill's potential to reduce paperwork for law enforcement, noting that some officers support the change for its administrative benefits. However, Craft clarified that while the bill might lessen some paperwork, it does not eliminate the need for officers to document incidents or handle evidence. He also highlighted the disparity in penalties between alcohol and marijuana possession, arguing that treating marijuana less severely than alcohol could create confusion and inequity, particularly for young adults.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of the bill, with some senators suggesting that amendments could make the legislation more acceptable. However, Craft maintained that even with potential changes, he would still prefer the bill not to pass, reflecting a deep-seated concern among law enforcement about the message it would send regarding drug use.

As the committee continues to deliberate, the outcome of this bill could have lasting effects on North Dakota's approach to marijuana and its legal framework. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between evolving public attitudes toward marijuana and the established legal and law enforcement perspectives, setting the stage for further debate in the state legislature.