Bill > HB648

This bill amends Pennsylvania's criminal code to expand the law on drug delivery resulting in death, specifically broadening the definition of how a person can be charged with a first-degree felony when their drug distribution leads to another person's death. The bill adds "manufactures" to the list of ways a person can be criminally liable and clarifies that the criminal charge can still apply even if the deceased person voluntarily used the controlled substance, whether alone or in combination with other substances like alcohol or additional drugs. The key changes remove potential legal defenses that might have previously allowed drug distributors to avoid prosecution when someone dies after using their drugs, essentially making it easier to hold drug distributors criminally responsible for fatal overdoses. The law will take effect 60 days after its passage, and it specifically references violations of The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act as the basis for potential prosecution.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=648