Bill > LD1263

This bill modifies existing Maine law regarding drug trafficking penalties, specifically creating a new Class A criminal offense when trafficking fentanyl powder results in serious bodily injury through an overdose. Currently, trafficking a schedule W drug that contributes to serious bodily injury is a Class B crime, but this bill introduces a more severe penalty for cases specifically involving fentanyl powder. The new provision establishes that if a defendant's trafficked fentanyl powder is a contributing factor to another person suffering serious bodily injury from an overdose, they can be charged with a Class A crime, which typically carries more significant potential penalties. The bill represents an effort to create a stronger legal deterrent and harsher consequences for drug traffickers whose actions directly lead to severe harm to individuals through fentanyl-related overdoses, reflecting growing concerns about the opioid crisis and the devastating impact of fentanyl in particular.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1263&snum=132