S.686

The Fair Sentencing Act

Introduced·3/25/25

Removes mandatory minimum sentences for certain criminal offenses in North Carolina.

The bill removes mandatory minimum sentences for certain criminal offenses in North Carolina. It allows judges to consider various factors before imposing a sentence, including the defendant's acceptance of responsibility, prior criminal history, and whether the defendant provided substantial assistance in the investigation or prosecution of others. The bill applies to offenses involving controlled substances, firearms, and impaired driving. It becomes effective December 1, 2025.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Rules and Operations of the Senate Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

DDD
3
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Mar 26, 2025

Senate

Passed 1st Reading

Mar 26, 2025

Senate

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

Mar 25, 2025

Senate

Filed