This bill amends the penalties for prohibited acts related to controlled substances. It updates the penalties for manufacturing, delivering, or possessing controlled substances classified in schedule I or II, except marijuana, to include imprisonment for up to life or a fine of up to $500,000. The bill also updates the penalties for creating, delivering, or possessing counterfeit substances.

The bill also changes the penalties for possession of marijuana offenses. It makes possession of two ounces or less of marijuana or cannabis concentrate by a person between the ages of 17 and 20 a civil offense, with a civil penalty of $150 and forfeiture of the marijuana. The penalty can be reduced if the offender completes an approved drug-awareness program and community service. Failure to complete the program and service within one year would increase the penalty to a $300 civil fine and forfeiture of the marijuana. Parents or legal guardians of the offender must be notified of the offense and the availability of the drug-awareness and community-service program.

Statutes affected:
908: 21-28-4.01