Secure a permanent and increased funding stream in the state General Fund Budget for Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Forces. The 2024 provision provides $3.5 million and extends the rules established in the federal Byrne JAG funding to the state program through Commerce. We intend to seek $7 million to be administered by WASPC.
Amend statute (RCW 69.50.401) and sentencing standards regarding the distribution of Fentanyl to reflect a higher sentencing standard for people convicted of VUCSA with a sentencing enhancement for the distribution of Fentanyl or other synthetic opioids.
Amend the Controlled Substance Homicide (RCW 69.50.415) to increase the sentencing severity and overall accountability of the crime. We will need to discuss this more thoroughly, but my thought is to abolish 69.50.415 and add controlled substance homicide under the Manslaughter 1st degree statute (RCW 9A.32.060.) The sentencing standards for Controlled Substance Homicide related to a non-violent /Drug offense. The standards are weak, to say the least. The sentencing standards for Manslaughter 1 are much more in line with what our community expectations are for a homicide.
