HB50 Alabama 2018 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Chris EnglandRepresentative

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2018

Title

Controlled substances, to add synthetic drugs and synthetic drug analogues to the list of controlled substances, Sec. 13A-12-211 am'd.

Summary

HB 50 would add synthetic drugs and their analogues to the list of substances that can trigger unlawful possession with intent to distribute, with new quantity thresholds for these substances.

What This Bill Does

It expands the crime of unlawful possession with intent to distribute to include synthetic controlled substances and their analogues. For these substances, the possession-with-intent threshold would be more than 16 grams but less than 56 grams (or mixtures containing them). The bill keeps unlawful distribution and unlawful possession with intent to distribute as Class B felonies and notes that, although it could require local funds, it is exempt from local-funding approval requirements because it defines a crime. It becomes effective on the first day of the third month after the governor signs the bill into law.

Who It Affects

• Individuals who possess synthetic controlled substances or their analogues in quantities over 16 grams up to 56 grams with the intent to distribute, who would face a new unlawful possession with intent to distribute charge (Class B felony).
• Law enforcement, prosecutors, and courts in Alabama who would apply and adjudicate cases under the updated statute (with the local-funding requirement exception noted in the bill).

Key Provisions

• Adds synthetic controlled substances and synthetic drug analogues to the list of substances for which unlawful possession with intent to distribute can be charged (Section 13A-12-211).
• Sets a new threshold for these substances: more than 16 grams but less than 56 grams (or mixtures containing them) for unlawful possession with intent to distribute (and similar language referencing synthetic analogues).
• Maintains that unlawful distribution and unlawful possession with intent to distribute remain Class B felonies.
• Addresses Amendment 621 by noting the bill would require new local expenditures but is exempt from local-funding vote/approval requirements because it defines a new crime or amends an existing crime.
• Effective date: the first day of the third month following its passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Controlled Substances