Bill > SB319

This bill modifies Hawaii's laws regarding marijuana possession by changing two key thresholds in the state's drug promotion statutes. Specifically, the bill increases the amount of marijuana that triggers more serious criminal penalties from one ounce to thirty grams for promoting a detrimental drug in the second degree, and from three grams to fifteen grams for promoting a detrimental drug in the third degree. Under the revised law, possession of fifteen grams or less of marijuana would be treated as a violation punishable by a $130 fine, rather than a petty misdemeanor. The bill maintains existing provisions related to other Schedule V substances and marijuana distribution, and ensures that any legal rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed before the law's effective date remain unchanged. The legislation appears designed to reduce criminal penalties for small-scale marijuana possession, aligning with a trend of marijuana decriminalization in various U.S. jurisdictions.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=319&year=2026