TX
Texas Senate Bill SB679

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB679

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the controlled substances listed in Penalty Group 1 under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

Impact

The impact of SB679 is significant as it aligns state drug policy with evolving understanding of substance abuse and related harms. By updating the definitions and classifications of controlled substances, the legislation is intended to improve law enforcement's ability to address illegal drug distribution and help in the prevention of drug-related offenses. The bill establishes clear guidelines for the possession and distribution of drugs classified under the updated penalty group, thus setting a framework for judicial proceedings related to drug offenses.

Summary

Senate Bill 679 proposes amendments to the Texas Controlled Substances Act focusing specifically on the substances listed in Penalty Group 1. This bill aims to revise the classification and control of certain narcotic drugs. By detailing the various opiates and related substances, the bill seeks to ensure a more effective regulatory framework addressing the public health challenges associated with substance abuse, particularly concerning opioids and other strong narcotics. These changes are part of ongoing efforts to respond to the opioid crisis facing many communities across Texas.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB679 may arise from differing opinions on drug policy. Advocates for stricter drug control may support the bill as a necessary measure against substance abuse, while opponents may argue that overly stringent regulations could disproportionately impact certain communities or lead to increased incarceration rates for non-violent drug offenses. Additionally, the potential for legal challenges regarding the classification of certain substances may spark debate among legislators and public health advocates.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

  • Chapter 481. Texas Controlled Substances Act
    • Section: 102

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB645

Relating to the designation of fentanyl poisoning for purposes of the death certificate and to the criminal penalties for certain controlled substance offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB6

Relating to the designation of fentanyl poisoning or fentanyl toxicity for purposes of the death certificate and to the criminal penalties for certain controlled substance offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB520

Relating to criminal penalties for possession offenses under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

TX HB178

Relating to testing possible controlled substance evidence for a controlled substance included in Penalty Group 1-B.

TX HB224

Relating to removing criminal penalties for the possession or distribution of certain drug paraphernalia under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

TX HB369

Relating to the criminal penalty for possession of certain small amounts of controlled substances in Penalty Group 1 or 1-B.

TX HB3578

Relating to increasing the criminal penalties for delivery of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 1-B to a child.

TX HB753

Relating to removing criminal penalties for the possession of drug paraphernalia under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

TX SB1622

Relating to the manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance listed in Penalty Group 1-B causing death; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB939

Relating to the penalty for certain offenders for possession of a small amount of certain controlled substances.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.