An Act to eliminate mandatory minimum sentences related to drug offenses
This bill proposes to remove mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses in Massachusetts, allowing judges more flexibility in sentencing individuals charged with manufacturing, distributing, or possessing controlled substances. The legislation amends state laws to eliminate fixed prison terms and specific fine amounts that were previously required for certain drug-related crimes, including those involving marijuana and other controlled substances. By deleting these statutory minimums, the bill aims to give courts the discretion to tailor punishments based on the specific circumstances of each case rather than enforcing rigid sentencing guidelines.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action Feb 8, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Cynthia Creem
DDemocratic
Co
Jo Comerford
DDemocratic
Co
Mike Barrett
DDemocratic
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