MS HB183

Excludes heroin and fentanyl from Schedule I or II controlled substance penalties and establishes separate, enhanced penalties for transfer and possession with intent to transfer.

For heroin and fentanyl transfer: less than 2 grams or 10 dosage units punishable by up to 12 years imprisonment or $100,000 fine; 2+ grams or 10+ dosage units but less than 10 grams or 20 dosage units punishable by 10-30 years imprisonment or $500,000 fine; 10+ grams or 20+ dosage units but less than 30 grams or 40 dosage units punishable by 15-40 years imprisonment or $1,000,000 fine.

Establishes that if death results from sale or transfer of any Schedule I, II, III or IV controlled substance, the responsible person faces imprisonment up to life with a minimum of 40 years.

Modifies aggravated trafficking statute to specify "200 or more dosage units" for clarity regarding Schedule I or II substances other than marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids.

Effective date is July 1, 2018.