The proposed bill amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code to address noncriminal violations related to marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, and associated paraphernalia. Key changes include reclassifying certain offenses from misdemeanors to infractions, particularly for individuals under twenty-one years of age. For instance, the ingestion of marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinol by individuals under eighteen is now classified as an infraction rather than a class B misdemeanor. Additionally, possession of less than one-half ounce of marijuana or less than two grams of tetrahydrocannabinol will also result in a noncriminal citation for those twenty-one and older, while individuals under that age will face infractions.

The bill introduces a new section that outlines the procedures for handling noncriminal citations, including the option for individuals to pay a fee of one hundred fifty dollars or forfeit bond if they do not appear for a scheduled hearing. It also specifies that if an individual is cited for a marijuana violation and posts bond by mail, they must do so within fourteen days, with provisions for requesting a hearing. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that individuals under eighteen years of age found in violation of drug paraphernalia laws will be guilty of an infraction, while those eighteen and older will receive a noncriminal citation.

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