MS SB2624

Creates new penalty tiers for first and second simple possession offenses of controlled substances (other than small amounts of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoids), with first offense punishable by up to 6 months imprisonment or $100 fine, and second offense by up to 1 year imprisonment or $200 fine.

Establishes that third simple possession offenses trigger existing penalties in Section 41-29-139, and subjects individuals to enhanced penalties in Section 41-29-147 only after a fourth or subsequent conviction (changed from second or subsequent).

Maintains existing penalties for possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana or 10 grams or less of synthetic cannabinoids, including fine-only penalties for first offense and escalating misdemeanor penalties for subsequent convictions.

Preserves all existing penalties for drug trafficking and aggravated trafficking offenses, with mandatory minimum sentences of 10-40 years for trafficking and 25 years to life for aggravated trafficking, with limited sentence mitigation options.

Effective date of July 1, 2024.