Nevada 2023 Regular Session

Nevada Assembly Bill AB170

Introduced
2/15/23  
Refer
2/15/23  

Caption

Revises provisions relating to certain offenses involving concentrated cannabis. (BDR 40-110)

Impact

The revisions introduced in AB170 represent a significant shift in how cannabis offenses involving minors are managed within the state of Nevada. By lowering the penalties for the possession of small quantities of concentrated cannabis, the bill aims to clarify legal enforcement and ensure that youth caught in possession are not marked as delinquents for minor offenses. This change seeks to reduce the criminalization of youth while encouraging rehabilitation over punitive measures. The fiscal note accompanying the bill indicates no anticipated impact on local or state government finances, reflecting a carefully considered approach to reform.

Summary

Assembly Bill 170 (AB170) proposes amendments to existing laws concerning offenses related to concentrated cannabis, specifically about the possession penalties. The bill modifies the current legal framework by reducing the penalty for the possession of one-eighth of an ounce or less of concentrated cannabis from a felony to a misdemeanor, aligning it with the penalties for the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana. Furthermore, it extends the jurisdiction of juvenile courts over certain cannabis-related offenses committed by minors, thus legislating a more lenient approach towards juvenile offenders under specific conditions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding AB170 is largely supportive, particularly among advocates for cannabis reform and juvenile justice reform. Proponents argue that by treating minor possession offenses with less severity, the law promotes a healthier, more constructive response to adolescent behavior. They express that the bill is aligned with broader trends towards acceptance of cannabis and a move away from stringent criminal penalties. However, some concerns exist about the potential normalization of cannabis use among youth, emphasizing the need for caution and education regarding health impacts.

Contention

AB170 has sparked discussions regarding the balance between public health and criminal justice. While supporters celebrate the decriminalization aspect of the bill as a positive step towards reducing unnecessary legal burdens on minors, opponents caution against the risk of de-emphasizing the potential dangers of concentrated cannabis consumption. The discussions highlight the complexities of marijuana legislation, particularly regarding its legal status versus community health effects, indicating the need for ongoing debate as attitudes and laws evolve.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NV SB197

Establishes and revises the penalties for certain offenses involving fentanyl and carfentanil. (BDR 40-579)

NV SB128

Revises provisions relating to fentanyl and certain related opioids. (BDR 40-544)

NV SB35

Revises provisions relating to controlled substances. (BDR 40-423)

NV AB76

Revises provisions relating to cannabis. (BDR 56-286)

NV SB277

Revises provisions relating to cannabis. (BDR 56-193)

NV SB168

Revises provisions relating to cannabis. (BDR 56-553)

NV AB413

Revises provisions relating to cannabis. (BDR 56-1054)

NV SB343

Revises provisions relating to fentanyl and derivatives of fentanyl. (BDR 40-501)

NV AB203

Revises provisions relating to cannabis. (BDR 56-134)

NV SB359

Revises provisions governing juvenile justice. (BDR 5-56)

Similar Bills

OK SB1980

Medical marijuana; defining term; modifying definition. Effective date.

OK SB680

Medical marijuana; requiring testing of medical marijuana waste prior to transfer; requiring separation of waste into waste batches. Effective date.

OK HB3634

Medical marijuana; adding definition; wholesaler license; requirements; effective date.

OK SB1635

Medical marijuana; requiring an affidavit for license renewal under certain circumstance; testing. Emergency.

OK HB2659

Medical marijuana; patient and caregiver licenses; authorizing possession of topical marijuana; effective date.

OK SB1338

Controlled dangerous substances; modifying certain definitions; modifying Schedule I and Schedule III. Effective date.

HI SB2487

Relating To Marijuana.

OK HB1719

Medical marijuana; creating the Medical Marijuana Act of 2023; effective date.