The bill amends the Controlled Substances Act in New Mexico to classify the trafficking of fentanyl as a first-degree felony, punishable by life imprisonment. Specifically, it introduces new legal language that states individuals convicted of trafficking fentanyl will face a life sentence for both first and subsequent offenses. Additionally, the bill modifies the definitions of trafficking controlled substances to include the possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and its analogs, while removing previous definitions related to controlled substance analogs.

Furthermore, the bill updates the sentencing authority provisions to explicitly include trafficking fentanyl as a first-degree felony with a life imprisonment sentence. This change emphasizes the severity of fentanyl trafficking in light of the ongoing opioid crisis and aims to deter such offenses through stringent penalties. The bill also maintains existing provisions regarding sentencing for other felonies, ensuring that the legal framework remains comprehensive while addressing the specific issue of fentanyl trafficking.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-31-20, 31-18-15