Plain English Breakdown
The bill text does not specify the exact scope of changes to existing search laws beyond the odor of marijuana.
Marijuana Odor Not Enough for Search
This bill says that police cannot search a car, house, or other private property just because they smell marijuana.
What This Bill Does
- Says the smell of marijuana alone is not enough to give police probable cause to search without a warrant.
Who It Names or Affects
- Law enforcement officers who might smell marijuana during an investigation.
- People whose property could be searched based on the smell of marijuana.
Terms To Know
- Probable cause
- A reasonable belief that a crime has been or is being committed, which allows police to search without a warrant.
- Warrantless search
- A search conducted by the police without first getting permission from a judge in the form of a warrant.
Limits and Unknowns
- The bill did not pass and was not signed into law.
- It only applies to searches based on smell alone, not other evidence or circumstances.