France: close and fines for drug users

(ANSA) - ROME, JULY 25 - France has decided to introduce fines for those who are found to make use of drugs, cannabis in particular, in an attempt to stem the episodes of violence that have happened in Nice in recent days.
    Visiting the city on the French Riviera, French Prime Minister Jean Castex has announced that the penalty will be 200 euros, 150 if paid within 15 days.
    France is one of the European countries in first place for cannabis use. Already in 2018, the introduction of fines to reduce drug use was proposed and has been tested in Rennes, Marseille, Lille, Créteil eBoissy-Saint-Léger. The measure is part of the new premier's plan for a tightening on security. "I want to end the violence in everyday life," said Castex, explaining that the measure "will simplify procedures by imposing a penalty without delay". (HANDLE).