Notwithstanding any public, special, or general law to the contrary, possession of one ounce (1 oz.) or less of marijuana, as defined in § 21-28-1.02, by a child under seventeen (17) years of age and who is not exempted from penalties pursuant to chapter 28.6 of title 21, shall constitute a status offense pursuant to § 14-1-3(11)(vii) and forfeiture of the marijuana. The family court may order a substance-abuse assessment and, if recommended, substance-abuse treatment. The parents or legal guardian of any child under seventeen (17) years of age shall be notified of the offense.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 14-5-8