Bill > SB888

This bill removes the legal distinction between powder cocaine and crack cocaine in Virginia's drug laws, specifically in the context of manufacturing, selling, giving, distributing, or possessing controlled substances. The legislation amends existing law to treat cocaine base (crack cocaine) the same as other forms of cocaine when determining criminal penalties. Under the revised law, quantities of cocaine and cocaine base will be calculated together when assessing potential sentences, which can range from five years to life imprisonment depending on the amount of the substance involved. The bill increases penalties for drug manufacturing and distribution, with particularly severe sentences for larger quantities of controlled substances and for repeat offenders. Notably, the law provides some exceptions to mandatory minimum sentences if certain conditions are met, such as the offender not having prior convictions, not using violence, and cooperating with law enforcement. The changes aim to standardize penalties across different forms of cocaine and provide a more uniform approach to drug-related criminal sentencing in Virginia.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB888