Proposition 132State law · Citizen initiative
Tougher fentanyl crime penalties
Explain it like I'm 5
This makes possessing or selling fentanyl a much more serious crime. Some people convicted of possession would also have to get treatment, like adding both a bigger penalty and a required safety class.
Yes vote
Possession of any amount of fentanyl becomes a felony, distribution receives tougher mandatory penalties, some people must complete treatment, and certain sentencing exceptions are limited.
No vote
Current fentanyl classifications, penalties, treatment rules, and sentencing exceptions remain.
The question to ask yourself
Would tougher penalties and required treatment reduce fentanyl harm more than they increase incarceration and discourage help-seeking?
The case for
- Fentanyl is deadly, so stronger penalties may deter distribution and protect communities.
- Required treatment gives some people an avenue toward recovery, not only punishment.
- Tighter sentencing rules may provide accountability when fentanyl crimes cause deaths.
Backed by: Advance Colorado
The case against
- Mandatory prison terms may increase incarceration without reducing overdoses.
- People may avoid treatment or emergency help because they fear felony charges.
- Treating small-scale sharing like major trafficking may strain prisons and courts.
Opposed by: Coloradans for Real Safety Solutions, Denver Justice Project, ACLU of Colorado
- Money
- State spending is estimated to rise by about $0.9 million in the first year and $8.9 million in the second year.
- Don't be misled
- It is misleading to say this targets only major dealers, because possession of any amount would become a felony and distribution of any amount would face tougher rules.