The Charleston City Council passed a bill that will change penalties for simple possession of marijuana by removing jail times.

The bill was sponsored by a councilmember and petition which got more than 4,ooo signatures.

On Monday night, the council voted 20- 5 to pass the bill.

The first offense wouldn't include a fine, the second would be a fine up to 250 and the third would be a fine up to 500.

Corey Zinn is a community organizer and he said passing this bill makes him hopeful for the future.

"We're hoping that it stays where it is or even reduces further because we could pass laws that make it no jail time, no fine whatsoever for anyone," Zinn said.

Zinn has been advocating for decriminalizing cannabis in Charleston, and he said since 2022, their petition collected more than 4,000 signatures.

Five councilmembers voted against the bill.

Councilmember Shannon Snodrgass said she believes voting yes would send a bad message.

"My personal belief, and being in healthcare, I just simply could not send that message that it's okay to have 15 grams of marijuana, until it's legalized, it's still an illegal substance," Snodgrass said.

Snodgrass said she feels this bill could potentially put law enforcement into a bad situation.

"Are they gonna carry scales to see how much it is, is it personal usage, is it seventeen ounces, it was unnecessary," Snodgrass said.

Offenders will still have to pay court costs which is around 70 dollars in Charleston, and it will go into effect in 5 days.