A group of lawmakers proposes introducing administrative liability to replace the existing criminal liability for the illegal disposal of small quantities of cannabis, its parts, oil, resin, extracts or tinctures, without the intention of distribution.
The amount of these substances that would be considered small would be determined on the basis of guidelines adopted under an order of the health minister.
Under the proposed amendments, people found in possession of small quantities of soft drugs would be warned or be issued a fine ranging from 30 to 250 euros, and they would face fines ranging from 250 to 400 euros for repeated offenses. In all cases, cannabis, its parts, oils, resin, extracts or tinctures would be seized.
The draft amendments also stipulate that persons found in possession of small amounts of soft drugs could be ordered to partake in programs or attend courses on alcoholism and drug addiction prevention, early intervention, healthcare, resocialization, improving communication with children, and changing violent behavior.
People who voluntarily turn to a healthcare facility for medical assistance or to state institutions to surrender illicitly produced, processed, acquired, possessed, stored, transported or delivered cannabis, their parts or products would be exempted from administrative liability.
If adopted by the Seimas, the amendments would enter into force in July.