summary
Introduced
10/16/2025
10/16/2025
In Committee
10/16/2025
10/16/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Amending the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L.233, No.64), entitled "An act relating to the manufacture, sale and possession of controlled substances, other drugs, devices and cosmetics; conferring powers on the courts and the secretary and Department of Health, and a newly created Pennsylvania Drug, Device and Cosmetic Board; establishing schedules of controlled substances; providing penalties; requiring registration of persons engaged in the drug trade and for the revocation or suspension of certain licenses and registrations; and repealing an act," further providing for drug overdose response immunity.
AI Summary
This bill amends the Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act to expand drug overdose response immunity protections, specifically providing legal safeguards for individuals who might otherwise be prosecuted in drug-related situations where they are seeking medical help during an overdose. The bill adds two key provisions: first, it clarifies that people cannot be charged or prosecuted for probation and parole violations or for specific drug-related offenses when they are seeking medical assistance during an overdose, and second, it prevents individuals from being charged with recklessly endangering another person (a criminal offense under Pennsylvania law) in these same circumstances. By offering these protections, the bill aims to encourage people to call for help during potential overdose situations without fear of legal consequences, potentially saving lives by removing barriers to seeking emergency medical intervention. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (13)
Paul Friel (D)*,
Valerie Gaydos (R),
Liz Hanbidge (D),
Carol Hill-Evans (D),
Kristine Howard (D),
John Inglis (D),
Tarik Khan (D),
Emily Kinkead (D),
La'Tasha Mayes (D),
Ed Neilson (D),
Ben Sanchez (D),
Ben Waxman (D),
Dan Williams (D),
Last Action
Laid on the table (on 04/27/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/hb1945 |
| BillText | https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/text/PDF/2025/0/HB1945/PN2454 |
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