SB 34 Summary

• Reduces the number of weight tiers for controlled substances from five to three tiers, simplifying Delaware's sentencing structure for drug offenses.

• Eliminates most aggravating factors in drug offense sentencing while maintaining enhanced penalties for violations occurring within protected school zones.

• Establishes minimum mandatory sentences of 4 years at Level V for repeat offenders convicted of the highest-level drug dealing offenses under § 4752.

• Provides statutory guidance for chemical testing and sampling procedures used to determine composition and weight of controlled substances at trial, allowing use of scientifically accepted methodology.

• Restructures drug dealing and possession statutes to base penalties primarily on prior convictions and school zone violations rather than multiple aggravating factors, and takes effect 90 days after enactment.