RÉSUMÉ DIGEST
ACT 247 (HB 652) 2021 Regular Session Glover
Prior law provided for a fine of up to $300, imprisonment for not more than 15 days, or both,
with regard to a first conviction for possession of marijuana when the offender possessed 14
grams or less and provided for enhanced penalties for subsequent convictions.
New law provides that the penalty for possession of 14 grams or less of marijuana for first
or subsequent convictions is a fine of up to $100.
Existing law provides for a fine of up to $500, imprisonment for not more than six months,
or both with regard to a first conviction for possession of marijuana when the offender
possesses more than 14 grams and provides for enhanced penalties for subsequent
convictions.
New law retains existing law with respect to convictions for possession of more than 14
grams.
New law further provides that if an offender upon whom a fine has been imposed for
possession of 14 grams or less 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.
New law provides for enforcement of new law for possession of 14 grams or less by use of
summons.
Effective August 1, 2021.
(Amends R.S. 40:966(C)(2)(a), (d), (e)(i), and (f)(i))