NJ A3695

Upgrades manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing Schedule I or II narcotic drugs (excluding heroin, cocaine, and certain other substances already covered) from a second degree crime to a first degree crime when the quantity is one ounce or more, with mandatory imprisonment including a parole ineligibility period of one-third to one-half of the sentence and fines up to $500,000.

Creates a new second degree crime for quantities of one-half ounce or more but less than one ounce of Schedule I or II narcotic drugs, where previously any amount under one ounce was a third degree crime.

Reduces the threshold for a third degree crime from less than one ounce to less than one-half ounce for Schedule I or II narcotic drugs, with fines up to $75,000.

Aims to align penalties for fentanyl-related offenses more closely with existing heroin penalties, as fentanyl currently faces lighter sentences despite 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.