The proposed bill amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code to address noncriminal violations related to marijuana and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It establishes that individuals under the age of twenty-one who intentionally ingest or possess marijuana or THC will be subject to infractions rather than misdemeanors. Specifically, the bill introduces a new section that allows for noncriminal citations carrying a fee of $150 for violations, with provisions for individuals to either pay the fee or request a hearing. Additionally, the bill outlines the process for sealing court records for first-time offenders who meet certain criteria.

Key amendments include changing the penalties for possession of marijuana and THC based on the amount and the age of the individual. For instance, individuals aged twenty-one and older may receive noncriminal citations for possessing less than half an ounce of marijuana or less than two grams of THC, while those under twenty-one will face infractions for the same amounts. The bill also clarifies the penalties for larger quantities of marijuana and THC, maintaining a structure that differentiates between infractions and misdemeanors based on age and quantity. Overall, the bill aims to reduce the criminalization of minor marijuana-related offenses, particularly for younger individuals.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 19-03.1-23, 19-03.4-03
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Conmy: 19-03.1-22.3, 19-03.1-23, 19-03.4-03
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 19-03.1-22.3, 19-03.1-23, 19-03.4-03
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Braunberger: 19-03.1-22.3, 19-03.1-23, 19-03.4-03