HF3123 Summary

• Doubles the drug weight thresholds for first, second, and third-degree controlled substance crimes involving cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and other drugs (e.g., 10 grams to 20 grams for first-degree cocaine sales).

• Creates new aggravated controlled substance crime felony with sentences up to 40 years imprisonment (or 10-50 years for repeat offenders) for sales of 100+ grams of cocaine/heroin/methamphetamine or possession of 750+ marijuana plants.

• Establishes that dispositions under section 152.18, subdivision 1 are not considered "subsequent controlled substance convictions" for sentencing enhancement purposes.

• Adds new criminal penalties for possession of 50-200 marijuana plants depending on crime degree (third degree through aggravated felony tier).

• Requires Sentencing Guidelines Commission to develop objective criteria based on statutory interests protected and types of harm caused by crimes, with criteria presentation to legislature by January 15, 2015.