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Some Md. Lawmakers Move To Decriminalize Drugs Like Heroin

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Some Maryland lawmakers are taking a bold step in decriminalizing possession of small amounts of certain drugs. It's one of a group of bills intended to address addiction as a health issue rather than a crime.

Political reporter Pat Warren has more on what the bills would do.

WJZ talks to grieving parents.

"She was in her kneeling position that she would used when she was shooting up," one mother said.

Linda Williams' daughter also died of a heroin overdose.

"It breaks my heart that so many young people have had to die," said Williams.

Governor Hogan has declared heroin addiction an epidemic in Maryland. Now some lawmakers propose changes in the state's approach to drugs, including better treatment and decriminalization.

"But if you get arrested a number of times or get a number of civil offenses, then you move into a different category and you're going to face criminal charges," said Del. Dan Morhaim, (D) Baltimore County.

According to the Maryland Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention, there were 43,703 drug arrests in 2014. Eighty-one percent of those arrests were for possession, and just 19 percent for the sale or manufacture of drugs.

Decriminalization of small amounts of drugs is seen by some as a better path than incarceration.

"Drug addicts, they don't understand small amounts. A drug addict only wants one thing--more," said substance abuse consultant Mike Gimbel.

Former Baltimore County Drug Czar Mike Gimbel tells WJZ it sends a mixed message to decriminalize drugs and fight addiction at the same time.

Bill sponsor Delegate Dan Morhaim expects resistance.

"Today is the start of a long journey, and it's going to take time," Morhaim said.

Remembering it took years to approve medical marijuana.

This and other bills will be introduced next week.

Morhaim is also proposing safe places where users can take drugs and have access to medical care and social services.

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