S 1095 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to drug induced homicide

This bill creates a new crime called drug-induced homicide, which allows prosecutors to charge individuals with up to life in prison if they knowingly distribute Class A controlled substances that result in death. It includes a "Good Samaritan" provision that protects people from prosecution if they seek medical help for an overdose in good faith without intent to defraud. The legislation also establishes a permanent commission made up of various officials and community members to monitor the law's effectiveness, review convictions, and ensure sentencing remains flexible without mandatory minimums. This commission will meet regularly to report its findings and recommendations to state leaders and the judiciary.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Feb 8, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
House · Passed
House concurred
Feb 16, 2023
Senate · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
1 primary · 3 co-sponsors

Sponsors