NJ S4631

Upgrades manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing one ounce or more of Schedule I or II narcotic drugs (excluding heroin, cocaine, and certain other specifically covered substances) from a second degree crime to a first degree crime, punishable by 10-20 years imprisonment and fines up to $500,000

Creates a new second degree crime for manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing one-half ounce to less than one ounce of these substances, carrying 5-10 years imprisonment

Lowers the threshold for third degree crimes from less than one ounce to less than one-half ounce for these Schedule I and II narcotic drugs, with fines up to $75,000

Requires first degree offenders to serve a mandatory minimum term of one-third to one-half of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole

Aims to align penalties for fentanyl-related offenses more closely with existing heroin penalties, as fentanyl is currently subject to lighter penalties despite being more potent and dangerous