State Panel Approves Plan To Reduce Drug Sentences

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A Minnesota panel has now approved a plan to change the state's drug sentencing guidelines.

The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission voted 7 to 3 to approve the plan. It will ease penalties for drug possession and dealing.

Under the plan, first time offenders convicted of drug possession would spend four years in prison instead of seven. Sentences for drug sellers would be reduced from seven to five years.

Supporters of the idea said it's time. They said Minnesota's drug laws have been too severe.

The changes will take effect in August unless the legislature intervenes.