Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SSB1041

Introduced
1/17/23  
Introduced
1/17/23  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See SF 125.)

Impact

The amendments introduced by SSB1041 will significantly modify how certain substances are regulated within Iowa's legal framework. Specifically, the bill will impose stricter penalties for violations concerning the newly categorized controlled substances. These penalties include classifications such as class B felonies and aggravated misdemeanors for specific offenses. Lawmakers believe that the revised schedules will help law enforcement better address substance abuse issues, particularly relating to potent substances similar to fentanyl and other newly identified drugs. This change in the law reflects a growing concern over the opioid crisis and the need for more robust regulatory measures.

Summary

Senate Study Bill 1041 aims to amend existing legislation concerning controlled substances in the state of Iowa. The bill introduces changes to controlled substance schedules as categorized under the Iowa Uniform Controlled Substances Act, specifically addressing substances classified under schedules I, IV, and V. It proposes to add new chemical designations and modify the reporting requirements for precursor substances. By updating these schedules, the legislation seeks to ensure alignment with the federal regulations outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations, thereby enhancing state compliance regarding controlled substances.

Contention

Despite its aim to tackle serious drug-related issues, SSB1041 may face opposition regarding the scope and implications of its penalties. Opponents may argue that the enhancements in penalties could lead to over-incarceration for minor offenses and disproportionately affect certain communities. Additionally, stakeholders in public health may express concern regarding the implications for drug treatment efforts, suggesting that too harsh a penalty could deter individuals from seeking help for substance abuse. The bill’s provisions will thus trigger discussions on finding a balance between enforcement and public health interests.

Companion Bills

IA HSB25

Related A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 128.)

IA SF125

Replaced by A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 1041.)

IA HF128

Replaced by A bill for an act relating to controlled substances, including amending certain controlled substances schedules and precursor substances reporting requirements, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HSB 25.) Effective date: 05/03/2023.

Similar Bills

CA AB2782

Controlled substances: fentanyl.

IA HF595

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances including the manufacture, delivery, or possession of a controlled substance including fentanyl; the manufacture of a controlled substance in the presence of a minor; conspiracy to manufacture for delivery or delivery or intent or conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance to a minor; receipt, provision, and administration of opioid antagonists, including by secondary distributors; providing for immunity; and providing penalties. (Formerly HSB 104.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

CA SB161

Controlled substances: fentanyl.

CA SB1103

Controlled substances: fentanyl.

IA SSB1096

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances including the manufacture, delivery, or possession of a controlled substance including fentanyl; the manufacture of a controlled substance in the presence of a minor; conspiracy to manufacture for delivery or delivery or intent or conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance to a minor; receipt, provision, and administration of opioid antagonists, including by secondary distributors, providing for immunity; and providing penalties.(See SF 508.)

IA HSB104

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances including the manufacture, delivery, or possession of a controlled substance including fentanyl; the manufacture of a controlled substance in the presence of a minor; conspiracy to manufacture for delivery or delivery or intent or conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance to a minor; receipt, provision, and administration of opioid antagonists, including by secondary distributors, providing for immunity; and providing penalties.(See HF 595.)

IA SF508

A bill for an act relating to controlled substances including the manufacture, delivery, or possession of a controlled substance including fentanyl; the manufacture of a controlled substance in the presence of a minor; conspiracy to manufacture for delivery or delivery or intent or conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance to a minor; receipt, provision, and administration of opioid antagonists, including by secondary distributors; providing for immunity; and providing penalties.(Formerly SSB 1096.)

US SB331

HALT Fentanyl Act Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act