Signed by Governor Jay Inslee

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes possession of a controlled substance as a gross misdemeanor offense.

Highlights:

• Specifies possession of a controlled substance as a gross misdemeanor offense with a maximum prison sentence of 6 months for the first 2 convictions with a subsequent maximum fine of $1,000 for each conviction (Part I, Sec. 1).

• Establishes a state system for implementing a pre-trial diversion program to help individuals get into treatment (Part I, Sec. 1).

• Prohibits and criminalizes all drug use in public (Part I, Sec. 2).

• Requires mandatory early conviction vacation if the individual in question can complete treatment or substantially comply with a recovery program or similar service for 6 months (Part III, Sec. 9).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes possession of a controlled substance as a gross misdemeanor offense.

Highlights:

• Specifies possession of a controlled substance as a gross misdemeanor offense with a maximum prison sentence of 6 months for the first 2 convictions with a subsequent maximum fine of $1,000 for each conviction (Part I, Sec. 1).

• Establishes a state system for implementing a pre-trial diversion program to help individuals get into treatment (Part I, Sec. 1).

• Prohibits and criminalizes all drug use in public (Part I, Sec. 2).

• Requires mandatory early conviction vacation if the individual in question can complete treatment or substantially comply with a recovery program or similar service for 6 months (Part III, Sec. 9).

Full Bill Text