Drug Bill Update

The American Civil Liberties Union says it’s back on board with a bill, designed to reduce low-level drug possessions to misdemeanors and increase penalties for drug dealers. The legislation is part of a long-running attempt by lawmakers to reduce Ohio’s prison population. The ACLU, a past supporter of the legislation, dropped its backing after an amendment was added last week that would boost penalties for selling drugs within the vicinity of an addictions service provider. The bipartisan bill would also allow people convicted of low-level drug possession charges to have their records sealed on completion of drug court requirements.