SB51 Summary

• Raises the minimum amount of cannabis required to constitute trafficking from 1 kilo (2.2 pounds) to 4.5 kilos (10 pounds).

• Changes the mandatory minimum sentence for trafficking 4.5-100 kilos (10-100 pounds) from 3 years imprisonment and $25,000 fine to penalties adjusted accordingly for the higher threshold.

• Maintains existing sentencing tiers for larger quantities: 100-500 pounds carries 5 years and $50,000 fine; 500-1,000 pounds carries 15 years and $200,000 fine; 1,000+ pounds carries life without parole.

• Excludes synthetic tetrahydrocannabinols (THC) samples containing more than 15 percent by weight and lacking plant material from the trafficking definition.

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