This bill amends N.J.S.2C:35-5 to increase the penalties for the manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing of certain Schedule I and II controlled dangerous substances. Specifically, it reclassifies the degree of crime associated with these offenses: it establishes that manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing a Schedule I or II drug in a quantity of one ounce or more is now a crime of the first degree, while quantities of one-half ounce or more but less than one ounce are classified as a second degree crime, and quantities less than one-half ounce are classified as a third degree crime. This change aims to align the penalties for fentanyl-related drug crimes with those for heroin, addressing the current disparity where fentanyl, being more potent and dangerous, carries lighter penalties.

The bill also introduces significant fines for these offenses, with a first degree crime potentially incurring a fine of up to $500,000, and a third degree crime carrying a fine of up to $75,000. The intent behind these amendments is to reduce the incentive for exploiting fentanyl's potency and profitability, thereby enhancing public safety. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.