HB344 Summary

• Revises marijuana possession penalties by creating four criminal degrees (first through fourth) with quantity thresholds ranging from 2+ pounds (first degree, Class B felony) to 3 ounces or less (fourth degree, Class A misdemeanor) to distinguish between low-level users and career criminals.

• Restructures penalties for Schedule II through V controlled substance offenses based on monthly therapeutic dosages established by the State Board of Health, with penalties varying by schedule and whether quantities exceed therapeutic limits.

• Authorizes the State Board of Health to establish and update monthly therapeutic dosages for Schedules II-V drugs to serve as benchmarks for classifying unlawful possession and distribution offenses.

• Maintains trafficking penalties for Schedule I substances (cannabis, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and other drugs) with mandatory minimum sentences ranging from 3 years to life imprisonment depending on quantity.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.