Bill > HB637

This bill establishes a new offense for the possession of residue of a controlled substance, defining "residue" as a sample too small to be accurately weighed, and creates a tiered penalty system for this offense based on the schedule of the controlled substance, ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor for Schedule I or II substances to a Class 4 misdemeanor for Schedule V or VI substances, with an exception for fentanyl residue which remains subject to existing laws. The bill also amends several existing laws to include this new offense, such as clarifying that possession of industrial hemp or cannabis products by authorized individuals does not constitute a violation, and ensuring that individuals seeking or reporting an overdose or act of sexual violence are protected from prosecution for certain drug-related offenses, including the newly created residue possession offense. Furthermore, it updates provisions related to probation for first-time offenders, firearm purchase restrictions for those convicted of certain drug offenses, and exemptions for comprehensive harm reduction programs.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB637