Should NZ wipe weed possession convictions? We asked people on the street

United States President Joe Biden will pardon thousands of Americans who have been convicted for “simple possession” of cannabis.

This is Biden’s first major step toward decriminalising cannabis in the US.

Cannabis is currently classified as a ‘Schedule 1’ drug which means it is seen as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. 

Heroin and Ecstasy are also classified as ‘Schedule 1’.

Since 1980, 124,000 New Zealanders have been charged with weed possession convictions. 

The maximum punishment for a cannabis possession is three months imprisonment and/or $500 fine. 

But it is rare for the police to convict someone for possession of a class C drug like cannabis if they have not committed any other offences at the same time.

Do you think NZ should follow suit and wipe weed possession convictions?

Where to get help:

• Alcohol Drug Helpline: call 0800 787 797 or free text 8681 for a free, confidential text conversation
• Alcohol Drug Māori Helpline: 0800 787 798 for advice and referral to kaupapa Māori services
• Alcohol Drug Pasifika Helpline: 0800 787 799 for advice and referral to services developed for Pacific people
• Alcohol Drug Youth Helpline: 0800 787 984 for advice and referral to services for young people

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