This bill amends the penalty for first-offense controlled drug possession in New Hampshire. Currently, possession of a controlled drug is a class B felony, but this bill changes it to a class A misdemeanor. The bill also increases the penalty for subsequent offenses to a class B felony. The bill also repeals the penalty for possession of a Class V controlled drug. The effective date of the bill is January 1, 2025.

The fiscal impact of this bill is indeterminable. It may have an impact on the judicial and correctional systems, which could affect prosecution, incarceration, probation, and parole costs for the state, as well as county and local governments. The bill has been reviewed by the Judicial Branch, Judicial Council, Department of Justice, Department of Corrections, New Hampshire Association of Counties, and New Hampshire Municipal Association.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 318-B:26