The bill proposes significant changes to the legal status of marijuana in Wyoming, including the creation of a civil penalty for possession of specified amounts of marijuana and the elimination of criminal penalties for its use and possession of paraphernalia. It amends existing laws to redefine marijuana, allowing for products that contain both marijuana and other ingredients, such as edibles and tinctures. The bill also establishes new thresholds for possession, specifying that individuals found with marijuana in certain amounts will face civil penalties rather than criminal charges. For instance, possession of up to three ounces of marijuana in plant form or up to 16 ounces of marijuana-infused products will incur a civil penalty of no more than $100.

Additionally, the bill modifies the regulations surrounding practitioners prescribing marijuana, removing previous restrictions and allowing for broader access. It clarifies that prior convictions related to marijuana possession will not count against individuals in future offenses, thereby reducing the penalties for subsequent offenses. The bill mandates that the attorney general adopt necessary rules for implementation by July 1, 2025, while the majority of the act will take effect immediately upon passage. Overall, this legislation aims to decriminalize marijuana use and possession while establishing a regulatory framework for its management in Wyoming.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 35-7-1002, 35-7-1031, 35-7-1037, 35-7-1038, 35-7-1039, 35-7-1040