Changes to certain drug offenses in ND are possible with the proposed bill

BISMARCK, ND (KFYR) – Lawmakers are looking for ways to punish those involved in the distribution and sale of fentanyl on the street. And as a result, some drug-related crimes could soon change in North Dakota.

Senate Bill 2248, introduced Monday, would make it a Class A felony to intentionally distribute a controlled substance that causes death or injury. This makes it a felony along with sex trafficking and murder in the heat of passion, punishable by 20 years in prison or a $20,000 fine.

“It doesn’t look like the parade of people convicted of possessing and distributing these drugs will see any jail time,” said Sen. David Hogue, R-Mino.

The bill passed out of committee and now heads to the Senate floor.

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