HB 486 Summary

• Reclassifies possession of one ounce or less of marijuana as a civil offense rather than a criminal offense for persons 18 years or older, subject to a $100 fine and marijuana forfeiture.

• Unpaid fines double if not paid within 90 days; minors under 18 must complete a drug awareness program (4 hours instruction, 10 hours community service, up to $150 fee) or face a civil penalty up to $350.

• Prohibits state and local agencies from denying student financial aid, public housing, unemployment benefits, driver's licenses, or foster/adoptive parent status based on marijuana possession or cannabinoid presence in body tissues.

• Prevents possession of one ounce or less of marijuana from being recorded in criminal offender databases or constituting a parole or probation violation.

• Does not affect laws regarding medical marijuana, possession over one ounce, marijuana sales/manufacturing/trafficking, or impaired driving; allows municipalities to regulate public consumption with penalties comparable to alcohol.