Update: House Bill 1340 was defeated on the House floor on Thursday, February 16, by a 54 to 35 vote.
Legislation is pending in the House to decriminalize the possession of marijuana and marijuana-related paraphernalia.
House Bill 1340 amends existing law so that activities involving the possession of marijuana, marijuana-related paraphernalia, or the internal possession of marijuana are reduced from criminal misdemeanors to non-criminal infractions — punishable by a fine only, no arrest, no jail, and no criminal record.
Under existing law, marijuana possession of one ounce or less is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $1,500 fine, while the possession of greater amounts are classified as a felony offense punishable by up to five years in prison. Possessing marijuana-related paraphernalia is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.
