An Act relative to setting proportionate penalties for the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil

This Massachusetts bill updates state drug laws to establish specific prison sentences and fines for the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil based on the weight of the substances involved. It directly affects individuals who manufacture, distribute, or possess these drugs with the intent to sell them by setting mandatory minimum prison terms that increase as the amount of drugs grows. For heroin, the penalties range from five years in prison for 18 to 36 grams to a life sentence for 200 grams or more, while fentanyl carries similar but lower weight thresholds, with life imprisonment starting at 40 grams. The legislation also imposes mandatory fines alongside the prison time, ensuring that financial penalties cannot replace the required jail sentences.