This bill amends Section 14-5-8 of the General Laws to change the penalty for possession of marijuana by a juvenile. Currently, possession of one ounce or less of marijuana by a child under seventeen years old is considered a status offense. The bill changes the amount of marijuana that can be possessed to two ounces or less. This means that possession of two ounces or less of marijuana by a juvenile would be considered a wayward offense, and the family court may order a substance-abuse assessment and treatment if recommended. The parents or legal guardian of the child would also be notified of the offense. The bill would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6068: 14-5-8