Amending penalty of simple possession of marijuana from misdemeanor crime to civil violation

SB 219 changes the penalty for simple possession of less than 15 grams of marijuana from a misdemeanor (potentially involving jail time up to one year or fines up to $5,000) to a civil violation. This means individuals caught with small amounts of marijuana would face a maximum $25 civil fine instead of criminal charges, avoiding a criminal record. The bill directly affects people in West Virginia who possess small quantities of marijuana for personal use, as defined by the current law. The change applies specifically to possession under 15 grams, leaving penalties for larger amounts or other drug offenses unchanged.