Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that decreases criminal penalties for possessing 15 grams or less of marijuana.

Highlights:

• Classifies the possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana as a civil offense, whereas current law classifies it as a criminal offense (Sec. 5).

• Requires that the possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana result in the following civil penalties (Sec. 5):
• $150 fine, for the first violation;
• $200 fine, for the second violation; and
• $500 fine, for the third and subsequent offenses. 

• Requires that the possession of drug paraphernalia for use of 15 grams or less of marijuana result in a civil penalty of $100 (Sec. 6). 

• Establishes the Drug Education Program Fund in the Department of the Treasury (Sec. 7). 

• Appropriates money from the Drug Education Program Fund to the Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services for drug education programs (Sec. 7). 

• Requires $50 from each penalty imposed for possession of marijuana or drug paraphernalia to be deposited in the Drug Education Program Fund (Secs. 5 & 6). 

• Specifies that an individual who commits a third or subsequent offense may be required to participate in a drug education program approved by the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services in the Department of Human Services (Sec. 5). 

Full Bill Text