GA SB79

Creates a separate felony offense of "trafficking in fentanyl" with tiered mandatory minimum sentences: 4-8 grams (10 years, $75,000 fine), 8-14 grams (15 years, $150,000 fine), 14-28 grams (25 years, $250,000 fine), and 28+ grams (35 years, $750,000 fine)

Removes fentanyl and fentanyl analogs from the general "trafficking in illegal drugs" statute and establishes harsher penalties specifically for fentanyl-related offenses

Establishes sentencing departure ranges allowing courts to impose reduced sentences if defendants meet specific criteria: not a leader, no firearm used, no death or serious injury resulted, no prior felony conviction, and interests of justice support departure

Sentences imposed under departure provisions cannot be reduced through early release, parole, or commutation, though defendants may be considered for transitional center or work release during their final year of incarceration

Effective July 1, 2025, applying to all offenses committed on or after that date