This bill aims to decriminalize the possession of residual amounts of controlled substances found in drug paraphernalia and similar items. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically sections 152.023 and 152.025, to clarify that individuals will not be charged with a controlled substance crime for possessing small residual amounts contained in drug paraphernalia, hypodermic syringes or needles, or small plastic bags typically used for personal use of controlled substances. The bill specifies that this exception applies to various categories of controlled substances, including narcotics and cannabis.

In section 152.023, the bill introduces language that explicitly states that possession of residual amounts in specified items will not constitute a crime, while section 152.025 similarly clarifies that such residual amounts are excluded from the definition of unlawful possession of controlled substances. These changes reflect a shift towards a more lenient approach to minor drug offenses, particularly in the context of personal use and harm reduction.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 152.023, 152.025