Bill > A218

This bill decriminalizes the possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana, meaning it will no longer be a criminal offense but will instead result in civil penalties. For a first offense, the penalty is $150, increasing to $200 for a second offense, and $500 for a third or subsequent offense, with no additional fines or fees beyond court costs. A portion of these collected penalties will be directed to a newly established "Drug Education Program Fund" to support drug education initiatives, while the remainder will be kept by the municipality where the violation occurred. The bill also addresses the possession of drug paraphernalia used for the personal use of 15 grams or less of marijuana, imposing a $100 civil penalty. Furthermore, individuals aged 21 and older who commit a third or subsequent violation may be required to attend a drug education program or undergo a professional assessment for drug treatment, with associated costs to be paid by the individual. Those under 21 will also be referred to drug education programs and may be assessed for treatment, with specific provisions for individuals under 18 to be handled by the Family Part of the Superior Court. The bill also clarifies that being under the influence of marijuana is not a violation of the law and removes marijuana from the list of controlled dangerous substances that would lead to a driver's license suspension if found in a vehicle.