HB 57
An Act amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in other offenses, further providing for drug trafficking sentencing and penalties.
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends Pennsylvania’s criminal code to establish mandatory minimum prison sentences and fines for drug trafficking offenses involving fentanyl or its derivatives. Specifically, it sets minimum sentences based on the weight of the fentanyl-containing substance, with increased penalties for larger quantities and for defendants with prior drug trafficking convictions. The bill also outlines procedures for notice and sentencing, including appellate review to ensure compliance with the mandatory minimum provisions.
Key provisions
- Mandatory minimum prison sentences for fentanyl trafficking offenses based on the quantity of fentanyl involved.
- Increased penalties for defendants with prior drug trafficking convictions.
- Specific sentencing guidelines for different weight ranges of fentanyl or fentanyl derivatives.
- Requirements for notice to the defendant regarding the application of the mandatory minimum sentence.
- Procedures for appellate review to ensure compliance with the mandatory sentencing provisions.
- The bill establishes that the applicability of the mandatory minimum penalty constitutes an enhancing element.
Who is affected
- Individuals convicted of drug trafficking offenses involving fentanyl.
- Defense attorneys representing individuals charged with drug trafficking offenses.
- Prosecutors in drug trafficking cases.
- Pennsylvania State Courts.
- The criminal justice system in Pennsylvania.
Notable changes
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
David Zimmerman
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours