Osceola County is the latest county in Florida to decriminalize small amounts of weed.

  • Osceola County comissioners unanimously voted to decriminalize 20 grams or less marijuana
  • Offendees would get a $100 citation, no misdemeanor charge

The county commission unanimously voted Wednesday of citing people caught with marijuana with $100 fine, rather than a misdemeanor charge.

The ordinance applies to people who are caught with less than 20 grams of marijuana. You can compare it to the weight of four sugar packets, as each one of these has about five grams of sugar.

“We’re talking about a victimless crime here," said Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington. "This is someone who is perpetrating a crime that is only affecting themselves personally. They’re not robbing people, they’re not stealing from other folks.”

Arrington hopes revenue generated from citations can help fund additional mental health services in the county. Commissioners are also looking into diversion programs.

“There’s a lot of parameters that fit that," Osceola County Sheriff Bob Hansell said. "But it’s going to be completely officer discretion when to issue that. We’re going to have policies written when they can issue a citation.”

For some Kissimmee residents, though, a citation is not enough.

Elvero Borila, who was born and raised in Colombia, a country known for illegal drug trade, says this can send a mixed message to the youth.

“The ordinance, the $100 is not going to work,” he said.

While the ordinance is countywide, the cities of Kissimmee and St. Cloud can choose to opt out.

The ordinance is expected to go into effect within 30 days after being officially filed.