Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB1245

Introduced
2/8/24  

Caption

Criminal Law - Distribution of Heroin or Fentanyl Causing Serious Bodily Injury or Death (Victoria and Scottie's Law)

Impact

The law introduces significant changes to Maryland's criminal statutes, particularly within the scope of drug distribution. By mandating heavier penalties for individuals whose distribution activities lead to overdoses or deaths, the bill aims to deter illicit drug sales and enhance public health safety. The introduction of this law could support the ongoing initiatives to stabilize communities adversely affected by drug-related crime, thereby contributing to the reduction of overall narcotic usage and associated health emergencies.

Summary

House Bill 1245, known as 'Victoria and Scottie's Law', seeks to enhance the criminal penalties related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or their chemical analogues resulting in serious bodily injury or death. The bill specifies that individuals distributing these substances could face felony charges leading to imprisonment for up to 20 years. This legislation is part of a broader effort to address the rising concerns regarding opioid abuses and related fatalities, reflecting the urgent need for legislative action in combating the opioid crisis.

Contention

While supporters praise the bill for addressing a critical public health crisis and potentially reducing the number of drug-related deaths, there are concerns regarding its implications on the broader legal landscape. Critics argue that imposing harsh penalties might not effectively address the underlying issues of addiction and could clog the criminal justice system with non-violent offenders. Additionally, there is contention regarding the proposed legal immunity for individuals seeking medical help for overdose victims, which could be a double-edged sword in terms of encouraging users to call for assistance while navigating the legal risks associated with drug distributions.

Companion Bills

MD SB1075

Crossfiled Criminal Law - Distribution of Heroin or Fentanyl Causing Serious Bodily Injury or Death (Victoria and Scottie's Law)

Previously Filed As

MD SB464

Criminal Law - Fentanyl and Fentanyl Analogues - Penalty

MD HB745

Criminal Law - False Statements - Emergency or Commission of Crime (Antiswatting Act of 2023)

MD SB340

Criminal Law - False Statements - Emergency or Commission of Crime (Antiswatting Act of 2023)

MD HB996

Artificial Intelligence - Implementation Causing Injury or Death - Civil and Criminal Liability

MD SB606

Criminal Law - Maryland RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Act

MD HB1138

Criminal Law - Maryland RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Act

MD SB1

Criminal Law - Wearing, Carrying, or Transporting Firearms - Restrictions (Gun Safety Act of 2023)

MD HB135

Criminal Law - Controlled Dangerous Substances and Firearms

MD SB656

Criminal Law - Failure to Properly Store Firearm - Death of Another

MD SB85

Criminal Law – Animal Abuse or Neglect – Penalties

Similar Bills

CA AB1673

California Fentanyl Abuse Task Force.

CA SB19

Fentanyl Misuse and Overdose Prevention Task Force.

CA AB2429

Pupil instruction: health education courses: fentanyl.

CA AB33

Fentanyl Misuse and Overdose Prevention Task Force.

CA AB3224

California Fentanyl Abuse Task Force.

CA AB2341

Criminal procedure: sentencing credits.