i am peter newsham, assistant chief of the district of columbia metropolitan police department (mpd). i am pleased to be here today to discuss the district of columbia's recent legislation to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana. the marijuana possession decriminalization amendment act of 2014 (d.c. act 20-305) (the act), which is projected to become effective law in mid-july, amends the district of columbia's criminal code to decriminalize the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana. instead of facing a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to six months in jail, up to $1,000 fine, or both, once the act goes into effect, individuals will be subject to a $25 civil fine and mpd officers can seize any visible marijuana. the use of marijuana on public space will remain a criminal penalty, punishable by up to 60 days in jail or a fine of up to $500. the act defines public space as: 1) any street, alley, sidewalk, park, or parking area; 2) a vehicle on any street, alley, park, or parking area; and 3) any place to which the public is invited. public attitudes about marijuana use have