This bill proposes to amend current statutes regarding sentencing for drug offenses, specifically focusing on fentanyl possession in motor vehicles. Under the new provisions, if a person is convicted of possessing or transporting at least 200 grams of fentanyl in a motor vehicle, they would face a specific sentencing range: a minimum of 5 calendar years, a presumptive term of 10 calendar years, and a maximum of 15 calendar years for a first offense. For individuals with prior convictions for similar offenses, the sentencing range would increase to a minimum of 10 calendar years, a presumptive term of 15 calendar years, and a maximum of 20 calendar years.

Additionally, the bill allows for the presumptive sentences to be mitigated or aggravated according to existing statutes. The current law remains unchanged for other drug offenses, but these new sentencing guidelines specifically target fentanyl-related offenses, reflecting a heightened response to the opioid crisis. Overall, the bill aims to establish stricter penalties for serious drug offenses involving fentanyl, thereby enhancing public safety and addressing the growing concerns surrounding this substance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-3408
House Engrossed Version: 13-3408
Chaptered Version: 13-3408