Low-level marijuana offenders could pay a fine, skip court, under North Dakota bill
For years, North Dakota’s courts have been bogged down by low-level marijuana cases—thousands of them, each requiring multiple court appearances for offenses that often end in a simple fine. A bill moving through the Legislature aims to change that. If passed, House Bill 1596 would treat possession of less than half an ounce like a speeding ticket: a $150 fine, no criminal charge. Supporters, including prosecutors, say it will free up resources and ease the burden on the justice system. With overwhelming support in the House, the bill now heads to the Senate.
HB 1596
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to 19-03.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to noncriminal marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, or paraphernalia violations; to amend and reenact subdivision d of subsection 7 of section 19-03.1-23, subsection 9 of section 19-03.1-23, and subsection 4 of section 19-03.4-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to penalties for the possession of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol, or paraphernalia; and to provide a penalty.
House Sponsors: Conmy (D, District 11), Dobervich (D, District 11), Foss (D, District 44), Heinert (R, District 32), Hendrix (R, District 10), Murphy (R, District 43), M. Ruby (R, District 40), Vetter (R, District 18),
Senate Sponsors: Boschee (D, District 44), Braunberger (D, District 10),
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