In a college town like State College, marijuana use is common among young adults. But many people don’t realize that getting caught with it can lead to real trouble. Knowing the local rules can save someone from legal problems that follow them for years.
What the Law Says About Marijuana in Pennsylvania
Marijuana is still illegal for recreational use in Pennsylvania. It’s only legal for people who have a medical marijuana card. This means if a person is caught with marijuana without a card, they can face charges.
Even small amounts can lead to trouble. Possession of 30 grams or less is a misdemeanor. If it’s more than 30 grams, the penalties increase. Getting help from a State College marijuana possession attorney can make a big difference if someone faces charges.
According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program, there were over 12,000 marijuana-related arrests in Pennsylvania in 2022. That shows just how serious law enforcement still is about these laws.
State College’s Local Rules
In State College, the local government has passed ordinances that handle small amounts of marijuana differently. If a person is caught with less than 30 grams, the police might issue a summary citation instead of a state-level criminal charge. This is like a traffic ticket.
The fines are usually:
- $250 for possession
- $350 for smoking in public
These local rules aim to reduce the impact on someone’s record. However, if State College police choose to apply state law instead, the consequences become more serious.
What Happens if You’re Caught
Possessing marijuana can lead to:
- A misdemeanor charge (for under 30 grams)
- Up to 30 days in jail
- A $500 fine
If the person has more than 30 grams, the penalties may include:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- A $5,000 fine
- Possible felony charges if the police think there was intent to deliver or sell
Driving under the influence of marijuana can also lead to license suspension—even for a first offense.
Students Face Extra Trouble
College students have more to lose. If a student at Penn State is caught with marijuana, they may:
- Face a hearing with the university’s Office of Student Conduct
- Lose campus housing or be banned from it.
- Lose scholarships or financial aid.
For international students, even a tiny marijuana charge can lead to immigration problems, including the loss of a student visa.
A 2021 survey from the American College Health Association showed that nearly 25% of college students reported using marijuana in the past month. With numbers like that, it’s clear that many students may not understand the risks involved.
How This Affects the Future
A marijuana charge can show up on a criminal record. This can cause problems when applying for:
- Jobs
- Housing
- College programs
- Professional licenses
Some countries may also deny entry to people with drug convictions. Even if the penalty seems small now, the long-term effects can be life-changing.
Can You Defend Yourself?
Yes. A reasonable attorney can help someone understand their rights and fight the charges. In some cases, a person may qualify for:
- A diversion program
- A conditional discharge
- ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition), which can help avoid a record
These options are usually for first-time offenders and non-violent cases. They can allow the person to avoid jail and even have the charge removed later.
Final Thoughts
Possessing marijuana in State College may seem like no big deal, but it can carry serious consequences. It’s essential to understand what’s at risk, from fines and jail time to long-term problems with school or work.
