This bill proposes amendments to the North Dakota Century Code regarding noncriminal violations related to marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, and associated paraphernalia. It introduces a new section that establishes a noncriminal citation system for individuals cited for marijuana-related violations, with a fee of $150. The bill specifies that individuals aged eighteen and older will receive a noncriminal citation for certain infractions, while those under eighteen will be guilty of an infraction. Additionally, the bill modifies existing penalties for possession and ingestion of marijuana and tetrahydrocannabinol, changing some offenses from class B misdemeanors to infractions, particularly for individuals aged eighteen and older.

Key amendments include the reclassification of penalties for possession of marijuana and tetrahydrocannabinol, with specific thresholds determining whether an individual is guilty of an infraction or a misdemeanor based on age and quantity. For instance, possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana or less than two grams of tetrahydrocannabinol will result in an infraction for those eighteen and older, while those under eighteen will face different penalties. The bill also allows for the sealing of court records for first-time offenders under certain conditions, promoting a more lenient approach to minor marijuana-related offenses.

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