The bill amends Section 14-5-8 of the General Laws in Chapter 14-5, which pertains to the treatment of juveniles for chemical dependency. It changes the legal framework regarding the possession of marijuana by minors, specifically increasing the allowable amount from one ounce (1 oz.) to two ounces (2 oz.). The bill stipulates that possession of two ounces (2 oz.) or less of marijuana by a child under the age of seventeen shall constitute an offense pursuant to 14-1-3(11)(vii) and mandates the forfeiture of the marijuana. Additionally, the family court may require a substance-abuse assessment and treatment if deemed necessary, and parents or guardians must be notified of the offense. This legislative change aims to align juvenile penalties for marijuana possession with current statutory penalties established in the Rhode Island cannabis act. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
134: 14-5-8