A new proposal in West Virginia could eliminate criminal penalties for the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
State Senator Mike Woelfel (D) has introduced Senate Bill 219, which would decriminalize the possession of up to 15 grams of marijuana. The measure has been referred to the Senate’s Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Committee. If advanced, it would then be considered by the Judiciary Committee before reaching the full Senate.
Under the bill, individuals found with 15 grams or less of marijuana would no longer face criminal charges. Instead, possession would be treated as a civil offense, subject to a fine rather than jail time. West Virginia currently treats simple possession as a misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties of up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Senator Woelfel has been an advocate for marijuana reform, previously supporting efforts to expand access to medical marijuana.
For the full text of Senate Bill 219, click here.
