DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 546 Original 2020 Regular Session James
Abstract: Authorizes a proposition election to determine if the possession, distribution, or
dispensing of marijuana should be decriminalized.
Present law provides for the regulation of controlled dangerous substances, and prohibits the
possession, distribution, dispensing, or possession with intent to distribute or dispense marijuana.
Proposed law provides for a proposition election to be held on Nov. 3, 2020, to determine whether
the possession, distribution, or dispensing of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinols, or chemical
derivatives thereof by persons 21 years of age or older should no longer be a criminal offense in the
state of La.
Proposed law provides that if a majority of the electors approve the proposition, then the possession,
distribution, or dispensing of marijuana by persons 21 years of age or older shall no longer be a
criminal offense. If the electors do not approve the proposition, then marijuana remains illegal as
provided for in present law.
(Amends R.S. 40:966(B)(2)(intro. para.) and (D)(1); Adds R.S. 40:989.4; Repeals R.S.
40:964(Schedule I)(C)(19) and 966(C)(2) and (F))