Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Public Safety Committee |
HB 1024
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Reducing the penalty for possession of controlled substances.
Sponsors: Representatives Appleton, Reykdal, Robinson, Clibborn, Moeller, Moscoso and Farrell.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/16/15
Staff: Cassie Jones (786-7303).
Background:
A controlled substance is defined as a drug, substance, or immediate precursor included in Schedules I through V as set forth in federal or state laws, or federal or state board of pharmacy rules. The schedule a substance is placed in depends on its potential for abuse, whether there is a currently accepted medical use in treatment, and the safety of the substance and risk for dependence, as determined by the Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission. Possession of a controlled substance is a class C felony. Class C felonies are punishable by five years in a state correctional institution, a fine of $10,000, or both confinement and a fine.
Summary of Bill:
Possession of a controlled substance is a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of $1,000, or both. In addition, a misdemeanor violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act is subject to mandatory minimum penalties of imprisonment of not less than 24 consecutive hours and by a fine of not less than $250.
Possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance and possession of a counterfeit substance are unchanged: a class B or C felony, depending on the substance.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.