Bill > H1571

This bill amends Chapter 265 of the Massachusetts General Laws to establish strict liability for a person who manufactures, distributes, or dispenses certain controlled substances, such as heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, if the use of those substances results in a death. The person can be punished by imprisonment for life or up to 25 years, and a fine of up to $25,000, with a minimum sentence of 5 years that cannot be reduced or suspended. The bill specifies that the person's act of manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing the substance must be the "but-for" cause of the death and the proximate cause. It also states that the decedent's own contribution to their death, such as through the purposeful, knowing, reckless, or negligent use of the substance, is not a defense to the prosecution.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H1571