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2016 SESSION
HB 997 Marijuana; decriminalization of simple marijuana possession.
Introduced by: Mark H. Levine | all patrons ... notes | add to my profiles
SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:
Marijuana; decriminalization of simple marijuana possession. Decriminalizes simple marijuana possession and provides a civil penalty of no more than $100 for a first violation, $250 for a second violation, and $500 for a third or subsequent violation. Under current law, a first offense is punishable by a maximum fine of $500 and a maximum 30-day jail sentence, and subsequent offenses are a Class 1 misdemeanor. The bill reduces the criminal penalties for distribution and possession with intent to distribute, etc., marijuana. The bill creates a rebuttable presumption that a person who possesses no more than one ounce of marijuana possesses it for personal use and provides that the suspended sentence/substance abuse screening provisions apply only to criminal violations or to civil violations by a minor. The bill also limits forfeiture of property from the sale or distribution of marijuana to quantities of more than one pound; currently there is no minimum amount.
FULL TEXT
HISTORY
- 01/13/16 House: Prefiled and ordered printed; offered 01/13/16 16101890D
- 01/13/16 House: Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice
- 01/19/16 House: Assigned Courts sub: Criminal Law
- 01/25/16 House: Subcommittee recommends laying on the table by voice vote
- 02/16/16 House: Left in Courts of Justice