Possession of 28.5 grams or less of cannabis is not an arrestable crime. As long as the offender can present sufficient identification and promises to appear in court, the officer will not arrest him. Upon conviction of the misdemeanour charge the individual is subject to a fine of $100. Possession of more than 28.5 grams is punishable by up to six months imprisonment and a fine of up to $500.
Possession of 28.5 grams or less of cannabis on school properties when the school is open is punishable by up to 10 days in jail and a $500 fine. Possession of more than 28.5 grams or more of cannabis in a school zone is punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
The production or processing of any quantity of cannabis is punishable by up to sixteen months in state prison. There is an exception to the production prohibition for patients or patients’ caregivers who possess or cultivate for personal consumption by the patient upon approval of a physician.
The laws regarding possession and cultivation of marijuana do not apply to patients or patients’ primary caregivers who possess or cultivate marijuana for the personal medical use of the patient, upon the recommendation or approval of a physician.
Selling cannabis in any quantity is punishable by 2 – 4 years in the state prison. Giving away less than 28.5 grams is a misdemeanour and is sentenced to a fine of up to $100.
Sale of cannabis to a minor is punishable by 3 – 5 years imprisonment.
For any individual under the age of 21 convicted of any of the above crimes, the state may suspend the offender’s driver’s license for up to one year.
Possession of paraphernalia is a civil fine of $200-$300 for the first crime and increases to $5,000-$6,000 for a fifth or subsequent offence within a five-year period.
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