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BOISE, Idaho – Idaho lawmakers are considering a bill that could impose harsher penalties for marijuana possession. House Bill 7 aims to enforce a minimum $300 fine for anyone caught with less than three ounces of marijuana.
Marijuana is illegal federally and remains illegal in Idaho for all uses. Neighboring states, including Washington and Oregon, have legalized recreational use.
Bill co-sponsors Rep. Jordan Redman (R-Coeur d’Alene) and Rep. Bruce Skaug (R-Nampa) want people to think twice before bringing any amount of marijuana into the Gem State.
Currently, possessing less than three ounces is a misdemeanor in Idaho, with penalties determined by a judge. The proposed bill seeks to standardize a basic penalty, according to Redman.
“Half the time they don’t even prosecute it, right? They’re just like – nothing. Or there’s some [judges] that throw the book at it too, right?” Redman said. “Recreational I have no appetite for because I I’ve seen what, in my opinion, that’s done to some of the other states. And I don’t think it’s, I don’t think that would be good for Idaho.”
This is not the first time such a bill has been proposed. Last session, the same sponsors pitched identical bills three times. None of them ever got out of committee. However, this time, the bill is gaining traction.
It is set for third reading on the House floor. Skaug will present the bill to the body – it could have debate and vote early as Monday.
“The floor could be interesting,” Redman said. “I do believe we move it off the floor.”
”}]] BOISE, Idaho – Idaho lawmakers are considering a bill that could impose harsher penalties for marijuana possession. House Bill 7 aims to enforce a minimum $300 fine for anyone caught Read More
