MS HB947

Increases the threshold for simple possession of Schedule I or II controlled substances (excluding marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids) from 0.1 grams to 1 gram or from 2 dosage units to 5 dosage units before felony penalties apply.

Creates a new intermediate sentencing option for possession of 1 gram or more but less than 2 grams of Schedule I or II drugs, allowing county jail confinement up to 1 year or a fine up to $1,000, as an alternative to the standard felony penalties.

Maintains existing penalties for marijuana and synthetic cannabinoid possession, with no changes to sentencing thresholds for these substances.

Preserves mandatory minimum sentences for trafficking offenses (10-40 years) and aggravated trafficking of Schedule I or II drugs (25 years to life), with language allowing judicial mitigation in specific circumstances where the 25-year mandatory minimum applies.

Effective July 1, 2017.