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 or possession of marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinol by individuals under eighteen is now classified as an infraction rather than a class B misdemeanor. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that establishes a noncriminal citation process for violations, which carries a fee of $150 and allows individuals to either pay the fee or request a hearing.

The bill also modifies penalties for possession amounts, specifying that 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 tetrahydrocannabinol. Furthermore, it allows for the sealing of court records for first-time offenders who meet certain conditions, thereby providing a pathway for individuals to avoid long-term consequences from minor infractions. Overall, the bill aims to reduce the criminalization of minor marijuana-related offenses and streamline the legal process for handling such violations.

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