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GA SB558

GA SB558
Controlled Substances; possession of certain quantities of marijuana constitute a misdemeanor; provide


summary

Introduced
02/24/2026
In Committee
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)

Last Action

Senate Read and Referred (on 02/25/2026)

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