HB 1603 Summary

• Modifies Arkansas Code § 5-64-443 to establish different penalties for drug paraphernalia possession based on the type of controlled substance involved

• Possession of drug paraphernalia for injecting, ingesting, or inhaling controlled substances is a Class A misdemeanor, or a Class D felony if the substance is methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, or cocaine

• Reduces penalties for paraphernalia used to manufacture certain drugs: possession for manufacturing methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, or cocaine becomes a Class D felony (down from Class B felony); manufacturing other controlled substances becomes a misdemeanor (down from Class D felony)

• Reduces penalties for paraphernalia used to store or conceal controlled substances: possession for storing methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, or cocaine becomes a misdemeanor (down from Class D felony); storing other controlled substances remains a Class A misdemeanor