S 929 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

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