The proposed bill SB1064 introduces the concept of a "drug-free neighborhood zone," expanding the existing law from focusing solely on "drug-free school zones" to include areas surrounding hospitals, nursing homes, drug treatment centers, mental health facilities, public parks, and banks. This change broadens the scope of protected areas and establishes specific penalties for the sale or transfer of fentanyl within these zones, with felony classifications and mandatory fines ranging from $2,000 to $150,000 based on the severity of the offense. The bill also modifies the required mental state for prosecution from "intentionally" to "knowingly," making it easier to prosecute offenders in these designated areas.
Additionally, the bill mandates the installation of visible signs to inform the public about the drug-free zones and requires local authorities to maintain these signs and provide maps of the zones to residents. It removes references to marijuana and other drugs, focusing specifically on fentanyl, and clarifies the definitions of "drug-free neighborhood zone" and "drug treatment center." Overall, SB1064 enhances penalties and expands the legal framework for addressing drug-related offenses in a wider range of community locations.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 13-3411, 13-3424, 13-703, 13-704, 13-708, 31-233