Deschutes DA: Recreational pot legal soon – but with rules

Last fall, Oregonians voted to legalize marijuana for recreational use. But with the July 1 change to state law just over a month away, Deschutes County District Attorney John Hummel made it clear Wednesday: There are still rules to follow — and enforce.

In preparation for July 1 st , Hummel issued the following statement:

“July 1 st is a significant day in Oregon, as we join Washington and Colorado in legalizing marijuana in certain limited situations. July 1 st is not the day that marijuana becomes legal all the time. Marijuana will remain illegal in many circumstances, and it’s important for the public to know that law enforcement will continue to enforce laws prohibiting the illegal use of marijuana.”

On July 1, 2015, and every day after, the following will be illegal in Oregon:

Possession of more than 8 ounces of marijuana in private and/or 4 plants per residence.
Possession of more than 1ounce of marijuana in public.
Possession of any amount of marijuana by those less than 21 years of age.
Use of any amount of marijuana in public.
Transporting any amount of marijuana out of state.
Driving a vehicle while impaired by marijuana, or by a combination of marijuana and another drug.

In conclusion, Hummel said: “I respect the will of the voters and will support peoples’ right to legally possess and consume marijuana.

“But if the law is broken and kids and the public are put at risk, my office will not hesitate to hold offenders accountable.”