Oops! Mich. repeals penalties for some drug crimes

LANSING, Mich. – Possessing drugs such as synthetic marijuana and an Ecstasy-like substance called BZP won't result in jail time or fines in Michigan because lawmakers accidentally repealed the penalties for those crimes.

A bill that took effect in October made it illegal to have or use such drugs. It called for up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,000 for misdemeanors. Felony cases involved more severe penalties.

But in December, lawmakers engrossed in a busy and lengthy lame-duck session failed to include those penalties in a drug sentencing bill. When Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed that bill last week, the penalties for synthetic marijuana and BZP were repealed.

Incoming state Sen. Rick Jones says he'll introduce a bill to fix the law when the Legislature convenes in January.