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HB 2720

hydrolyzed cocaine; threshold amount

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by Leo Biasiucci and 10 co-sponsors

Arizona law now establishes threshold amounts for hydrolyzed cocaine possession, differentiating simple possession from intent-to-distribute charges with potential sentencing implications.

Signed by Governor
0
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Bill Summary · HB 2720

Legislative bill overview

HB 2720 modifies Arizona's drug possession laws by establishing a specific threshold amount for hydrolyzed cocaine (a derivative form of cocaine) that distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute. The bill was signed into law on March 31, 2025, after passing the legislature.

Why is this important

This legislation affects criminal sentencing and prosecution strategy in Arizona drug cases. By creating a defined threshold, the law provides clearer legal standards for prosecutors and courts, potentially impacting thousands of drug possession cases and creating disparities in how different cocaine forms are legally treated compared to powdered or crack cocaine.

Potential points of contention

  • Sentencing disparity concerns: Creating separate thresholds for different cocaine derivatives may result in unequal treatment under law; two individuals with similar amounts of cocaine could face vastly different charges based on chemical form
  • Scientific/pharmaceutical classification: Hydrolyzed cocaine's legal definition and distinction from other cocaine forms may lack clear scientific consensus, creating enforcement ambiguity
  • Drug policy consistency: The bill could be viewed as either a precision legal tool or an ad-hoc response that fragments cocaine-related statutes without comprehensive drug sentencing reform

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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