The bill amends the Public Health Code, specifically section 7401, to update the penalties associated with the manufacture, delivery, or possession of controlled substances. It clarifies that practitioners licensed under this article must only dispense, prescribe, or administer controlled substances for legitimate therapeutic or scientific purposes. The bill introduces new language regarding the penalties for violations, particularly for substances classified in schedules 1 through 5, and specifies the consequences based on the amount and type of substance involved. Notably, it establishes different penalties for substances like heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil, with severe consequences for larger quantities.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing language to streamline the penalties for various offenses related to controlled substances, including the removal of certain maximum imprisonment terms and fines. It allows for consecutive sentencing for violations under subsection (2)(a) and provides a mechanism for individuals previously sentenced to lifetime probation to seek discharge after serving a specified period. The amendments aim to enhance clarity and effectiveness in addressing drug-related offenses while ensuring that penalties are proportionate to the severity of the violations. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after being enacted into law.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 333.7401