Bill
Bill > HB2317
VA HB2317
VA HB2317Marijuana, etc.; possession, smoking by person younger than 21 years of age prohibited.
summary
Introduced
01/08/2025
01/08/2025
In Committee
01/08/2025
01/08/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
02/22/2025
02/22/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Possession of marijuana, marijuana products, retail tobacco products, and hemp products intended for smoking by a person younger than 21 years of age prohibited; penalty. Provides that no person younger than 21 years of age shall consume or possess, or attempt to consume or possess, any marijuana, marijuana products, retail tobacco products, or hemp products intended for smoking, as such terms are defined in relevant law, and a violation of such prohibition is a Class 1 misdemeanor, with certain exceptions. The bill also allows any such person charged with his first offense of underaged possession of retail tobacco products or hemp products intended for smoking to have the proceedings deferred, to be placed on probation by the court, and to have the charges dismissed by the court without an adjudication of guilty upon such person's successful completion of probation.
AI Summary
This bill modifies existing Virginia law to strengthen penalties for individuals under 21 years old possessing or attempting to possess marijuana, marijuana products, retail tobacco products, and hemp products intended for smoking. Previously, such offenses resulted in a small civil penalty, but now they are classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor for both adults (18 and older) and juveniles. The bill requires that individuals charged with these offenses be ordered to enter substance abuse treatment or education programs tailored to their needs. For first-time offenders under 21 who possess retail tobacco or hemp products intended for smoking, the court may defer proceedings and place the individual on probation, with conditions including completing a treatment or education program, remaining drug and alcohol-free, seeking employment, and performing community service. If the individual successfully completes probation, the charges can be dismissed without an adjudication of guilt. The bill maintains exceptions for law enforcement, employment-related product handling, and scientific research, demonstrating a nuanced approach to addressing underage possession of these products while providing opportunities for rehabilitation and education.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Left in Courts of Justice (on 02/04/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2317 |
| Fiscal Note/Analysis - Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB2317) | https://lis.blob.core.windows.net/files/1029175.PDF |
| BillText | https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2317/text/HB2317 |
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