The bill amends the West Virginia Code to enhance penalties for offenses related to controlled substances, particularly focusing on fentanyl. It introduces a new section, 60A-4-419, which outlines requirements for enhanced sentencing for fentanyl-related crimes, increases sentences for certain drug offenses, and modifies weight classifications for sentencing. The legislation specifies that certain offenses will be ineligible for probation or alternative sentencing, clarifies the definition of drug delivery resulting in death, and establishes a new offense for drug delivery in exchange for money that results in death, imposing significantly increased penalties. Additionally, it creates a definition for "drug kingpin" and details the prosecution procedures for such individuals, while also updating penalties for failure to render aid in drug-related incidents.

The bill also introduces "Laurens Law," which mandates felony charges with mandatory imprisonment for individuals who fail to seek medical assistance for someone experiencing a drug overdose that results in death. Those convicted of being a drug kingpin will face felony charges with a minimum sentence of ten years and a maximum of forty years, without eligibility for probation or parole. Furthermore, the bill outlines criteria for determining qualifying offenses and associated penalties for repeat offenders, including mandatory sentence enhancements for individuals with prior felony convictions. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen penalties for drug-related crimes and enhance public safety in response to the growing crisis of fentanyl-related overdoses and deaths.