Marijuana decriminalization bill filed in Wyoming Legislature

February 16, 2022
AggregatedNews
Wyoming
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Marijuana decriminalization is on the table in the Wyoming Legislature.

A pair of bills for legalization and a medical use study failed during last year’s session, after being passed by the House Judiciary Committee.

Now, a new draft aimed at removing criminal penalties for marijuana use and possession faces a hurdle before it can be discussed this year — because it’s a budget session, it must get a two-thirds introductory vote in the House to be considered.

House Bill 106, filed on Tuesday by Rep. Mark Baker, R-Green River, opts to create a civil penalty that comes with a maximum $100 fine for marijuana possession under three ounces.

It would also remove repeat offense enhancements for marijuana, which often increase the fine or prison sentence that comes with multiple drug convictions.

Right now, using or possessing less than three ounces of marijuana is a misdemeanor in Wyoming, which at its harshest can sentence someone to a year in prison. If you’re found with more than three ounces, or selling marijuana to others, you can be convicted of a felony that comes with as much as five to 10 years of incarceration.

Wyoming is one of about a dozen remaining states where using or having marijuana, besides low-THC hemp and CBD products, remains entirely illegal. [Read more at Casper Star-Tribune]