House Bill No. 7065 seeks to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of psilocybin, specifically less than half an ounce, by amending existing laws. The bill introduces new legal language that classifies possession as an infraction, imposing a fine of $150 for a first offense and between $200 to $500 for subsequent offenses. It also mandates that law enforcement officers seize and destroy any psilocybin found in violation of this law. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "controlled substances" to exclude cannabis and psilocybin in amounts less than half an ounce, thereby reducing penalties associated with their possession. Notably, minors under 18 would not be adjudicated delinquent for their first or second offense of possession, a significant shift from current law.

Furthermore, the bill updates the penalties for drug paraphernalia offenses, clarifying that these do not apply to cannabis or small amounts of psilocybin. It lowers the burden of proof in trials for psilocybin possession from "beyond a reasonable doubt" to "preponderance of the evidence," and introduces a 60-day suspension of the driver's license for individuals under 21 convicted of this violation. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to reduce the criminal penalties associated with psilocybin possession while maintaining certain regulatory measures, potentially leading to savings for the Department of Correction and the Judicial Department due to reduced incarceration costs.

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