MS HB948

Reduces the distance requirement for drug offense enhancements near schools from 1,500 feet to 500 feet, and eliminates the 1,000-foot distance requirement for churches, parks, and other youth facilities.

Changes the trigger for school zone drug enhancements from automatic application to requiring that persons under 18 years of age be "reasonably expected to be present" at the time of the offense.

Repeals Section 41-29-147, which previously provided sentencing enhancements for second drug offense convictions.

Adds an exemption to school zone drug enhancements for offenses committed inside a private residence where no person under 18 years of age was present.

Effective date: July 1, 2017.