An ongoing epidemic, that saw an increase in drug overdoses and overdose deaths in 2020, received a breath of life in the form of a bill filed with the help of Onslow County s senator.
One week ago, Senator Michael Lazzara (R-Onslow) announced the introduction of SB 321 called the Amend NC Controlled Substance Act . The bill is seen as a tool to help combat the fight against the opioid crisis in North Carolina by making fentanyl distribution and possession a Class 1 felony.
Simple possession of fentanyl is currently a misdemeanor in the state as the bill would bump offenders up to a maximum punishment of two years in jail if convicted.