An Act relative to crimes relating to distribution of controlled substances causing death
This bill (SD 50) amends Massachusetts law to treat certain drug distribution causing death as second-degree murder. It directly affects individuals who knowingly or intentionally traffic or unlawfully distribute controlled substances (like drugs) when their actions result in death. The key provision elevates the criminal charge from drug trafficking to second-degree murder under Chapter 265, Section 1. It also explicitly states that ignorance of a user's pre-existing health condition cannot be used as a defense.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Feb 2025
House Passage
Feb 2025
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2025
Last action Dec 18, 2025
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
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 27, 2025
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 27, 2025
Committee
Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Bruce Tarr
RRepublican
Co
Peter Durant
RRepublican
Co
Steve Xiarhos
RRepublican
Ask Maddy
·
AI policy assistant
Ask Maddy about S 1257
Scope: MA
Hi! I can help you understand S 1257. What would you like to know?
Try one of these
i
Maddy answers using official bill text and legislative records. Always verify before sharing.
Sources cited inline