Utah Bill Would Remove Criminal Penalties for First-Time Marijuana Possession of Up to 14 Grams, Reduce Penalties for Subsequent Offenses

OG article by Anthony Martinelli

January 19, 2026

Utah State Representative Grant Miller (D) introduced House Bill 253 to lessen penalties for possessing or using up to 14 grams of marijuana, shifting from harsh criminal sanctions toward lighter enforcement for minor cases. Under the proposal, a first offense would become an infraction punishable only by a fine, eliminating misdemeanor classification. Penalties escalate for repeats: second offenses as class C misdemeanors (no jail, but potential record impact), third as class B, and fourth as class A misdemeanors—avoiding current felony status for third/fourth offenses. The bill aligns with Utah's clean slate expungement system, allowing automatic removal of qualifying minor marijuana possession convictions after waiting periods, provided no disqualifiers apply. It does not change sales prohibitions, existing possession limits, or introduce adult-use legalization, targeting only reduced long-term consequences for small amounts. If passed and signed into law, the changes would take effect May 6, 2026. This reform reflects growing momentum in conservative states to decriminalize low-level possession, potentially easing burdens on courts and individuals while maintaining strict controls on distribution and higher quantities. Supporters argue it prevents disproportionate lifelong impacts from minor infractions.