Bill > H3993

This bill proposes to amend Section 34A of Chapter 94C of the General Laws, which deals with drug offenses. Specifically, it adds a new provision, designated as paragraph (b½), that would protect individuals from being charged or prosecuted for possession of controlled substances (under sections 34 or 35) or drug paraphernalia (under section 32I) if the evidence for such charges was obtained as a direct result of them seeking assistance or treatment for a drug-related addiction at a police station, or if they are the subject of a good faith request for such help. This protection applies to both the person seeking help for themselves and for someone else present at the police station. The intent is to encourage individuals to come forward for help without fear of immediate arrest for drug possession.