An Idaho House committee voted Wednesday to advance legislation that would establish a mandatory minimum fine of $300 for possessing less than three ounces of marijuana.
The House Judiciary and Rules Committee approved the measure in a 10 to 4 vote after narrowly defeating a motion to hold it in committee.
Combat veterans and advocates with Kind Idaho, a group supporting medical marijuana legalization, spoke in opposition to the bill. Veterans testified that cannabis helps manage their severe health conditions without the risks associated with opioids. Criminal defense lawyers also voiced opposition, arguing mandatory minimums strip judges of discretion and fail to deter crime.
Supporters, including law enforcement groups, the Idaho Republican Party, and conservative organizations like the Idaho Freedom Foundation, claimed the fine would discourage drug use. Rep. Jordan Redman, R-Coeur d’Alene, co-sponsor of the bill, stated, “A law without consequences is simply a suggestion.”
Under current Idaho law, possession of less than three ounces of marijuana is a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 but no set minimum. This has led to some judges issuing fines as little as $1 or $2, something opponents of cannabis argue encourages use.
A motion to kill the bill failed 6 to 8, with some Republicans expressing concern about restricting judicial discretion.
HB 7 now moves to the full House for debate.
