Bill > H2266

This bill aims to repeal mandatory minimum sentencing laws for drug offenses, meaning that judges will no longer be required to impose a specific minimum prison term for certain drug-related crimes under Chapter 94C of the law. Instead, courts will have the discretion to impose sentences that do not include mandatory minimums, potentially allowing for shorter prison terms or alternative sentencing options as outlined in Section 24 of Chapter 279. The bill also removes a provision that prevented individuals aged seventeen and older from benefiting from certain legal procedures related to their charges under Chapter 94C. Furthermore, individuals currently serving sentences for drug offenses under Chapter 94C will become eligible for sentence reductions for good behavior and can participate in various rehabilitation programs like education and work release. However, for those serving sentences in state prison for Chapter 94C violations, parole eligibility will be contingent on serving two-thirds of their minimum sentence.