S-2850 : Still Just a Bill

Smarter Sentencing Act of 2019

This bill modifies mandatory minimum prison terms for defendants who commit certain drug-related offenses.

First, the bill reduces the mandatory minimum prison term for defendants who manufacture, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Specifically, it reduces mandatory minimums

• from 10 years to 5 years for a first-time high-level offense (e.g., one kilogram or more of heroin),
• from 15 years to 10 years for a high-level offense after one prior felony drug offense,
• from 5 years to 2 years for a first-time low-level offense (e.g., 100 to 999 grams of heroin), and
• from 10 years to 5 years for a low-level offense after one prior felony drug offense.

Additionally, the bill modifies the application of mandatory minimum prison terms for certain defendants who import or export a controlled substance. Specifically, it

• makes existing mandatory minimums inapplicable to a defendant who functions as a courier; and
• establishes new, shorter mandatory minimum prison terms for a courier.

The Department of Justice must report on and publish all federal criminal statutory offenses. Specified federal agencies, departments, and entities must report on and publish criminal regulatory offenses that they enforce.