Crimes and offenses; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance further provided for; unlawful sale of a controlled substance enhancements amended; unlawful distribution of marijuana created and penalties established

SB 176 changes Alabama's drug distribution laws by reclassifying the unlawful sale of controlled substances as a violent offense (instead of nonviolent), meaning standard sentencing rules no longer apply. It removes marijuana from the general controlled substance statute and creates a new specific offense for "unlawful distribution of marijuana" with dedicated penalties. The bill also modifies sentencing enhancements for drug distribution occurring near schools or public housing projects, allowing judges to impose an additional five-year sentence. These changes directly affect individuals convicted of drug distribution crimes in Alabama, altering how such offenses are categorized and punished.