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GA SB558
GA SB558Controlled Substances; possession of certain quantities of marijuana constitute a misdemeanor; provide
summary
Introduced
02/24/2026
02/24/2026
In Committee
02/25/2026
02/25/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Chapter 13 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to controlled substances, so as to provide that possession of certain quantities of marijuana constitute a misdemeanor; to revise a definition; to change provisions relating to punishment; to amend Title 15, Title 16, Title 17, and Code Section 36-32-6 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to courts, crimes and offenses, criminal procedure, and municipal court jurisdiction in marijuana possession cases, respectively, so as to provide for conforming cross-references; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill amends Georgia law to redefine the penalties for marijuana possession, making it a misdemeanor to possess three ounces or less of marijuana. Specifically, possessing half an ounce or less will result in a fine of up to $300 or 250 hours of community service. Possessing more than half an ounce but up to three ounces will be a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or 500 hours of community service for the first three convictions, and a high and aggravated misdemeanor for subsequent convictions. The bill also adjusts related legal references to reflect these changes, including provisions for immunity from prosecution for seeking medical help for drug overdoses and clarifying the jurisdiction of various courts, such as state, probate, magistrate, and municipal courts, to handle these misdemeanor marijuana possession cases. Possession of more than three ounces of marijuana, or possession with intent to distribute, remains a felony offense.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (20)
Tonya Anderson (D)*,
Gail Davenport (D)*,
Ed Harbison (D)*,
Sally Harrell (D)*,
Jaha Howard (D)*,
Nabilah Islam Parkes (D)*,
Kim Jackson (D)*,
Donzella James (D)*,
Emanuel Jones (D)*,
Harold Jones (D)*,
RaShaun Kemp (D)*,
David Lucas (D)*,
Derek Mallow (D)*,
Randal Mangham (D)*,
Josh McLaurin (D)*,
Nikki Merritt (D)*,
Nan Orrock (D)*,
Elena Parent (D)*,
Doc Rhett (D)*,
Kenya Wicks (D)*,
Last Action
Senate Read and Referred (on 02/25/2026)
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://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/73541 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/243721 |
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