NJ A5855

Upgrades manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing Schedule I or II narcotic drugs (excluding heroin, cocaine, LSD, methamphetamine, and marijuana which have separate provisions) from a second degree to a first degree crime when the quantity is one ounce or more, with mandatory minimum prison terms of one-third to one-half of the sentence and fines up to $500,000

Creates a new second degree crime tier for quantities of one-half ounce or more but less than one ounce of Schedule I or II narcotic drugs, previously covered under the third degree offense

Maintains third degree crime classification for quantities less than one-half ounce of Schedule I or II narcotic drugs, with fines up to $75,000

Intended to align penalties for fentanyl-related crimes more closely with existing heroin penalties, addressing the disparity despite fentanyl being more potent and dangerous

First degree crimes carry 10-20 years imprisonment; second degree crimes carry 5-10 years; third degree crimes carry 3-5 years