The bill amends the Controlled Substances Act to classify the trafficking of fentanyl as a first-degree felony, punishable by life imprisonment. Specifically, it introduces new legal language stating that individuals convicted of trafficking fentanyl will face a life sentence for both first and subsequent offenses. Additionally, the bill modifies the existing definitions of trafficking controlled substances, including the possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and its analogs, which are now explicitly included in the definitions.

Furthermore, the bill updates the sentencing provisions for noncapital felonies to include trafficking fentanyl as a first-degree felony, which carries a life sentence. This change emphasizes the severity of fentanyl trafficking and aligns it with other serious offenses, such as aggravated criminal sexual penetration and the death of a child. The bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding drug trafficking in New Mexico, particularly in response to the growing crisis of fentanyl abuse.

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