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2016 SESSION

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SB 104 Marijuana; decriminalization of simple possession, reduces penalties for distribution.

Introduced by: Adam P. Ebbin | 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 there is a maximum fine of $500 and a maximum 30-day jail sentence for a first offense and subsequent offenses are a Class 1 misdemeanor. The bill reduces the criminal penalties for distribution and possession with intent to distribute, etc., of 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 sale or distribution of marijuana to quantities of more than one pound; currently there is no minimum amount.


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