FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2024
BOISE, IDAHO – Earlier today, Governor Brad Little signed House Bill No. 406 into law. This bill amends Chapter 27, Title 37, of the Idaho Code for the following purposes:
- Adding fentanyl to the list of dangerous drugs that carry mandatory minimum sentences.
- Setting the amount of fentanyl required for criminal trafficking at 4 grams, or 2,000 lethal doses.
- Creating the crime of drug-induced homicide for dealers whose drugs resulted in someone’s death.
Idaho Family Policy Center proudly supported H406 throughout the legislative process, In addition to lobbying and testifying, Idaho Family Policy Center mobilized thousands of Idaho voters to send House and Senate committee members more than 10,000 emails in support.
A statement from Blaine Conzatti, President of Idaho Family Policy Center:
While there has been much debate in recent decades over mandatory minimums, two things are clear: First, mandatory minimums reduce sentence disparity and address the real problem of unjust and unduly lenient sentences for horrific crimes like drug trafficking. Second, mandatory minimums get the most dangerous criminals off the streets for longer periods of time—protecting public safety.
According to the results of statewide public opinion polling released by Idaho Family Policy Center this past December, more than 78% of likely Idaho voters believe the state legislature should add fentanyl to the mandatory minimum sentencing law for drug traffickers.
Many of us have seen the devastation caused by the wave of fentanyl flowing into Idaho, destroying families and poisoning our communities. This new law will send the message that fentanyl drug trafficking will no longer be tolerated in our state.
Media Contact:
For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact our communications manager, Morgan MaGill, at (208) 260-5844 or [email protected].
