Maryland Senate Bill SB464

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/23
• Refer: 2/3/23

Caption

Criminal Law - Fentanyl and Fentanyl Analogues - Penalty

Impact

The enactment of SB464 is significant as it modifies current criminal law pertaining to drug offenses by explicitly addressing fentanyl and its analogues. Increasing the penalties is intended to act as a deterrent against the distribution and misuse of such substances, which have been closely linked to rising overdose incidences. This change in state law serves to strengthen law enforcement's ability to address the fentanyl crisis more effectively, potentially leading to more stringent enforcement and prosecution of related offenses.

Summary

Senate Bill 464 focuses on the penalties associated with offenses involving fentanyl and its analogues. It aims to enhance the maximum term of imprisonment for individuals found guilty of manufacturing, distributing, possessing with intent to distribute, or dispensing controlled substances that contain fentanyl. The bill proposes to increase the maximum imprisonment term from 10 years to 20 years, emphasizing the severity of crimes involving this potent substance and reflecting the critical public health concerns surrounding fentanyl misuse and trafficking.

Contention

While the bill may garner support for its intent to combat the fentanyl crisis, there are potential points of contention regarding its implications. Critics might argue that increasing penalties could lead to overcrowding in correctional facilities without addressing the underlying issues of substance abuse and addiction. Furthermore, there are concerns that harsher penalties may not necessarily reduce drug-related offenses, as the complexities of addiction require a multifaceted approach that includes treatment and prevention alongside punitive measures.