As of June 1st, 2013 marijuana possession cases will now go to the municipal courts in Saint Louis City, which essentially decriminalizes possession of small amounts of the drug.

Currently police charge marijuana offenders under the more harsh state law since no local law exists. The current state law punishes offenders with up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Now, those caught with small amounts of marijuana - under 34 grams, will be issued a summons to appear in the municipal court rather than arrested and taken to jail. Most offenses will lead to a fine of $100 to $500.  Possession of larger amounts of marijuana — over 35 grams will still carry harsher penalties.This essential means that marijuana possession cases in the City of Saint Louis will now be handled like traffic tickets.

The Saint Louis Board of Alderman approved the bill and Mayor Francis Slay signed the bill. Marijuana activists are now looking to other major Missouri cities to pass similar legislation.