Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1175

Caption

Relating to the criminal and licensing consequences of certain criminal offenses involving the possession or delivery of marihuana and cannabis concentrate or possession of drug paraphernalia; imposing a fee; authorizing a fine.

Impact

The most notable impact of SB1175 is the potential reduction of penalties for lower quantities of marihuana and cannabis concentrate. By recategorizing certain offenses from felonies to misdemeanors or even classifying minor infractions as fines only, the bill will likely decrease the number of individuals subject to harsh penalties and criminal records for minor cannabis-related offenses. This reform aligns with a broader trend in many jurisdictions aimed at decriminalizing cannabis and addressing issues related to mass incarceration, particularly among marginalized communities.

Summary

SB1175 is a legislative proposal aimed at revising the criminal and licensing consequences associated with certain offenses related to the possession and delivery of marihuana and cannabis concentrate. The bill seeks to update existing laws by modifying the definitions of marihuana and cannabis concentrate, and it establishes a new framework for categorizing offenses based on the quantity and type of substances involved. Key provisions include delineating penalties for various levels of possession and distribution of marihuana, thereby aligning state laws with evolving community standards regarding cannabis use and possession.

Contention

Despite the reformative intentions behind SB1175, the bill has attracted a degree of contention. Proponents argue that it represents necessary progress toward more equitable drug laws that prioritize public health and safety, while opponents might express concern that reducing penalties could lead to greater accessibility and potential misuse of cannabis products. Additionally, certain stakeholders may argue about the implications of the bill on public health and safety, especially considering the nuances of substance regulation and enforcement at local levels.

Companion Bills

TX HB3772

Same As Relating to the criminal consequences of certain criminal offenses involving the possession of marihuana or possession of drug paraphernalia; imposing a fee; authorizing a fine.

Similar Bills

TX HB3772

Relating to the criminal consequences of certain criminal offenses involving the possession of marihuana or possession of drug paraphernalia; imposing a fee; authorizing a fine.

MI HB4430

Marihuana: other; safety information provided to consumers; modify. Amends secs. 3 & 8 of 2018 IL 1 (MCL 333.27953 & 333.27958).

MI HB6291

Marihuana: other; references to and regulation of industrial hemp under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act; amend. Amends secs. 3 & 8 of 2018 IL 1 (MCL 333.27953 & 333.27958).

MI HB4322

Marihuana: other; individuals who are 19 years of age or older; allow to be employed by or volunteer for marihuana establishments. Amends title & secs. 3, 4, 5, 8, 10 & 11 of 2018 IL 1 (MCL 333.27953 et seq.).

MI SB0180

Marihuana: other; tribal marihuana businesses; allow cannabis regulatory agency to contract with Indian tribes regarding the operation of. Amends secs. 3, 7, 8, 10 & 13 of 2018 IL 1 (MCL 333.27953 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0179'23

TX SB760

Relating to the prosecution of and criminal penalties for the possession of marihuana concentrate; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB551

Relating to the prosecution of and criminal penalties for the possession of marihuana concentrate; creating criminal offenses.

MI HB5884

Marihuana: licenses; certain licenses for medical and recreational marihuana; modify. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 9a, 11a, 12, 13, 14, 15 & 17 of 2018 IL 1 (MCL 333.27951 et seq.); adds secs. 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 24a, 25, 26, 27 & 28 & repeals secs. 10, 11 & 16 of 2018 IL 1 (MCL 333.27960 et seq.).