Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB680

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of and penalties for possession of 0.35 ounces or less of marihuana.

Impact

The proposed changes to the law will likely have significant implications for how marihuana possession cases are handled in Texas. By shifting the classification of possession of small amounts of marihuana from a Class B to a Class C misdemeanor, the bill intends to decrease the likelihood of incarceration and reduce the fines associated with such offenses. Should the bill pass, it may result in fewer individuals being subjected to serious criminal charges for negligible quantities of marihuana. This reflects an evolving attitude toward marihuana legalization and decriminalization across the country, placing Texas alongside other states that have adopted similar legislative changes.

Summary

House Bill 680 addresses the prosecution and penalties associated with the possession of marihuana in Texas, specifically targeting offenses involving 0.35 ounces or less. The bill seeks to reclassify the possession of such a small amount from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class C misdemeanor, which typically carries lighter penalties. This change reflects a broader movement toward criminal justice reform, aimed at decriminalizing minor marihuana-related offenses and reducing the burden on the court system. By adjusting the severity of penalties for low-level marihuana possession, the bill may help mitigate the consequences faced by individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, who might otherwise encounter substantial legal repercussions for minor infractions.

Contention

While supporters argue that the bill promotes fairness and improves the state’s criminal justice policies, critics may express concerns that the reclassification does not go far enough toward fully legalizing marihuana or addressing the needs of individuals with previous convictions. The bill also signifies a departure from the traditional punitive approaches towards drug offenses; however, debate may ensue regarding potential public health implications and the societal perception of marihuana use. Notably, there could be discussions around the bill's impact on law enforcement practices and how it aligns with broader societal trends regarding drug use and criminalization.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2601

Relating to the criminal penalties for possession of marihuana.

TX HB2446

Relating to the criminal penalties for possession of marihuana.

TX SB208

Relating to the criminal penalties for delivery and possession of marihuana and citations given for those offenses.

TX HB520

Relating to criminal penalties for possession offenses under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

TX SB87

Relating to the criminal penalties for possession or delivery of marihuana concentrate.

TX HB127

Relating to the criminal penalties for possession or delivery of marihuana concentrate.

TX HB1374

Relating to the criminal penalties for possession or delivery of marihuana concentrate.

TX HB218

Relating to the criminal and licensing consequences of certain offenses relating to the possession of marihuana, certain tetrahydrocannabinols, certain synthetic cannabinoids, and drug paraphernalia; imposing a fee.

TX SB967

Relating to the criminal and licensing consequences of certain offenses relating to the possession of marihuana, certain tetrahydrocannabinols, certain synthetic cannabinoids, and drug paraphernalia; imposing a fee.

TX HB1341

Relating to repealing certain offenses and removing certain regulations relating to the cultivation, manufacture, delivery, and possession of marihuana and cannabis.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.