Bill > SB5213

This bill addresses the escalating fentanyl crisis in Washington state by changing the legal classification and penalties for fentanyl possession. Specifically, the bill reclassifies possession of fentanyl from a gross misdemeanor to a class C felony, making it a more serious criminal offense. The legislation is motivated by alarming health statistics, including 662 synthetic opioid overdose deaths in the first quarter of 2024. The bill aims to reduce fentanyl availability by imposing stricter legal consequences, with the intent of deterring distribution and use, and ultimately protecting public safety. The changes will affect both adult and juvenile justice systems, modifying sentencing guidelines to reflect the new felony classification for fentanyl possession. The bill includes an emergency clause, indicating the urgent nature of addressing the fentanyl problem, and will take effect immediately upon passage.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5213&Year=2025&Initiative=false