Knowingly possessing drug paraphernalia is classified as:

Knowingly possessing drug paraphernalia is classified as a petty misdemeanor in Minnesota. This classification reflects the state's legal approach towards offenses that involve possession of items associated with drug use or distribution, but do not directly involve the possession of illegal substances themselves.

A petty misdemeanor generally results in less severe penalties compared to a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor, and the consequences may include fines rather than a risk of jail time. This classification aims to prioritize treatment and education over punishment for minor offenses related to drug paraphernalia, recognizing that not all possession entails direct involvement with drugs but can be linked to broader issues of substance use or addiction. Understanding this classification helps to contextualize the legal systems' stance on drug-related offenses, emphasizing that possession of paraphernalia alone does not equate to greater criminal behavior.