CT SB00244

Revises enhanced penalties for drug paraphernalia offenses near schools and day care centers, effective October 1, 2012.

Reduces the proximity zone for enhanced penalties in towns with population exceeding 60,000 from 1,500 feet to 200 feet of school property, and applies penalty only during regular school hours or school-sponsored activities where students are present.

Removes enhanced penalties for drug offenses near public housing projects and updates day care center provisions to apply only during operating hours when the center displays an identifying sign.

Eliminates mandatory minimum sentences ("shall not be suspended") for enhanced drug penalties, giving judges discretion in sentencing for violations near schools and day care centers.

Maintains three-year mandatory consecutive sentence for drug distribution near schools or day care centers, and two-year mandatory consecutive sentence for drug possession near these locations.