Senate Passes Bills Increasing Penalties for Drug Dealers

The New York State Senate today passed legislation toughening the penalties for drug dealers who sell to children or near alcohol and drug treatment facilities. 

A bill (S.988), sponsored by Senator Jack Martins (R-C-I, Mineola), makes the sale of drugs by an adult to a child under the age of 14 a felony.

“We need a no-nonsense policy when it comes to drug pushers who prey on our children,” said Senator Martins. “There is no excuse for anyone selling drugs to children 14 and younger. This bill holds them accountable. And makes sure they are taken off the streets.”

Also in another effort to protect the most vulnerable in our communities, the Senate passed legislation that makes it a crime to sell drugs on the grounds of a drug or alcohol treatment center. 

The bill (S.1388) sponsored by Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos (R, Rockville Centre) creates “drug free zones” within 1,000 feet of a treatment center, and includes methadone clinics.

People recently discharged from rehabilitation centers or methadone programs are susceptible to using drugs. Because of this, drug dealers often target these people, sometimes in the immediate vicinity of a treatment center. This bill makes it more difficult for these drug dealers to reach those leaving such facilities.

The bills will be sent to the Assembly.

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