Bill > HB518

This bill reduces the punishment for simple possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana from a criminal offense to a civil penalty, specifically a fine not exceeding $100 that would be deposited into the general fund of the municipality or county court where the fine is imposed. The bill also amends Section 21-23-7 to grant municipal courts jurisdiction over civil offenses, which would include this new marijuana possession civil penalty. Currently, possessing 30 grams or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor punishable by potential imprisonment and/or fines, but under this bill, it would be treated as a civil violation similar to a traffic ticket. The legislation aims to reduce the criminal justice system's burden and potential long-term consequences for individuals caught with small amounts of marijuana. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving local jurisdictions time to prepare for implementing the new civil penalty approach. By changing marijuana possession from a criminal to a civil offense, the bill seeks to minimize the negative impacts of criminal records for minor drug offenses while still maintaining a consequence for illegal possession.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0518.xml