HB 1280: Marijuana; Reduce penalties for possession of

This bill, by amending Section 41-29-139 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, aims to reduce the penalties associated with marijuana possession and transfer offenses. Specifically, it lowers the maximum prison sentences and fines for various quantities of marijuana, for instance, reducing the maximum sentence for possessing 30 grams or less from three years to eighteen months and the maximum fine from $3,000 to $1,500. It also adjusts penalties for larger quantities, generally decreasing the maximum prison time and fines. Additionally, the bill modifies the record-keeping requirements for certain marijuana convictions, reducing the period for which private, nonpublic records are maintained from two years to one year. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.