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 652 Original 2021 Regular Session Glover
Abstract: Reduces the criminal penalties for a first conviction of marijuana when the offender
possesses 14 grams or less.
Present law provides for the following criminal penalties with regard to a first conviction of
possession of marijuana.
(1)Offender possesses 14 grams or less - fined up to $300, imprisoned for not more than 15
days, or both.
(2)Offender possesses more than 14 grams - fined up to $500, imprisoned for not more than six
months, or both.
Proposed law reduces the criminal penalties for a first conviction of possession of marijuana when
the offender possesses 14 grams or less to a fine of not more than $50. Additionally, the court shall
have the discretion to fashion alternative penalties other than imprisonment including installment
payments or community service not to exceed four hours.
Proposed law further provides that if an offender upon whom a fine has been imposed alleges
indigency, or otherwise fails to pay the imposed fine, the court shall determine whether the defendant
has willfully refused to pay or has made bona fide efforts to legally acquire resources to pay. If an
offender has not willfully refused to pay and has made bona fide efforts to attempt to pay the fine
imposed, the court shall use its discretion to alternatives, including installment payments or
community service.
Proposed law provides for enforcement of proposed law by use of summons.
(Amends R.S. 40:966(C)(2)(a))