The bill H. 3110 aims to amend South Carolina's laws regarding controlled substance offenses, specifically focusing on the decriminalization of marijuana possession. It proposes to decriminalize the possession of twenty-eight grams (one ounce) or less of marijuana and ten grams or less of hashish, allowing law enforcement to issue civil citations for these amounts instead of criminal charges. Additionally, the bill seeks to reduce penalties for first-time possession of less than one gram of methamphetamine or cocaine base, mandating that offenders complete a drug treatment or rehabilitation program as part of their sentence. The bill also requires that individuals guilty of a first offense for certain controlled substances be placed on probation.

Key amendments include changes to Sections 44-53-370, 44-53-375, and 44-53-450 of the South Carolina Code. Notably, the bill modifies the penalties for marijuana possession, allowing for civil citations and reducing the maximum imprisonment for first-time offenders. It also stipulates that for first offenses involving methamphetamine or cocaine base, the maximum imprisonment is reduced from three years to one year, and the fines are adjusted accordingly. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation over incarceration, aiming to alleviate the burden on the criminal justice system and redirect resources towards addressing violent crimes.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 44-53-370
Latest Version: 44-53-370
12/06/2024: 44-53-370