In New York state, the laws regarding the possession and sales of controlled substances are commonly called the Rockefeller drug laws, named after Nelson Rockefeller. They are considered to be the basis for most, if not all, zero-tolerance laws surrounding controlled substances.

The Rockefeller drug laws have strict guidelines when it comes to sentencing of any person found guilty of possession or sale of drugs. Referred to as mandatory minimum sentences, they tie the hands of judges in sentencing, taking away any semblance of judiciary discretion with regards to the context of the crime.

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