CONCORD, N.H. (WCAX) – Lawmakers in New Hampshire are attempting to crack down on fentanyl dealers.
In a vote along party lines, the Republican-controlled Senate passed a bill Thursday that would require a mandatory five-year minimum sentence for anyone caught dealing fentanyl. The highly addictive drug can be deadly even if taken in very small amounts.
Law enforcement who support the bill say dealers can’t just be given a slap on the wrist anymore. “I think it is time that we send a strong message to these people who are smuggling and dealing fentanyl on the streets of New Hampshire. As we know, this is a crisis throughout our country. The number one overdose drug throughout our nation is fentanyl,” said Lebanon Police Chief Phil Roberts.
Senator Sue Prentiss, D-Lebanon, voted against the bill saying it would be handcuffing the judicial system. She says she’s in favor of harsh sentences but that it should be up to judges.