House Bill No. 7065 seeks to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of psilocybin, specifically less than half an ounce, by reclassifying the penalties associated with such possession. The bill introduces new legal language that establishes a fine of $150 for a first offense and fines ranging from $200 to $500 for subsequent offenses, while also mandating law enforcement to seize and destroy any psilocybin found in violation of this law. Additionally, it modifies the definition of controlled substances to exclude psilocybin in amounts less than half an ounce, thereby reducing legal penalties and clarifying that drug paraphernalia laws do not apply to these small amounts. The bill also includes provisions for the suspension of motor vehicle licenses for individuals under 21 who are convicted of psilocybin possession violations.

Moreover, the bill repeals and replaces several sections of the general statutes, removing previous classifications that treated possession of controlled substances as a class A misdemeanor. It lowers the burden of proof for trials related to psilocybin possession from "beyond a reasonable doubt" to "preponderance of the evidence" and specifies that minors under 18 will not be adjudicated delinquent for their first or second offense of possession. The bill aims to streamline enforcement and accountability measures while maintaining regulations for larger quantities of psilocybin. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 14-111e
JUD Joint Favorable: 14-111e
File No. 730: 14-111e