MS HB984

First offense simple possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana or 10 grams or less of synthetic cannabinoids becomes a civil offense with fines of $100-$250 instead of a criminal offense.

Civil fines are paid to the municipality or county where the offense occurred and are enforceable by summons if the offender provides proof of identity and written promise to appear in court.

Second conviction within two years is a misdemeanor with $250 fine, up to 60 days in county jail, and mandatory drug education program participation.

Third or subsequent conviction within two years is a misdemeanor with $250-$1,000 fine and up to six months in county jail.

First or second convictions result in a private, nonpublic record maintained by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics for two years, then automatically expunged and not considered a criminal record.