Bill > S05376

This bill amends New York's penal law to classify possession of substances containing fentanyl, carfentanil, or their analogs as criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree when the aggregate weight of such substances is 500 milligrams or more. Currently, similar weight-based thresholds exist for other controlled substances like cocaine and gamma hydroxybutyric acid. By adding this new provision (subdivision 9) to section 220.06 of the penal law, the bill expands criminal penalties for possession of these potent synthetic opioids, which are known for their extreme potency and potential for causing fatal overdoses. The legislation aims to address the ongoing opioid crisis by creating stricter legal consequences for possessing significant quantities of these dangerous drugs. The bill will take effect on the first of November following its enactment, giving law enforcement and the judicial system time to prepare for the new legal standard.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5376