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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 26, 2017 03:20 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative James R. Santora |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Heroin penalties for drug dealing |
| In an effort to combat drug use and drug-related injuries in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, I am introducing legislation that would strengthen the penalties for drug dealing. Specifically, my proposal would establish a second degree felony for the delivery or distribution of an illegal controlled or counterfeit substance that results in serious bodily injury to the drug user. Under current Pennsylvania law, a drug dealer, in most circumstances, cannot be charged in connection with serious bodily injury resulting from the drug use. Drug addiction is devastating our state. We cannot let the number of lives struggling with substance abuse continue to grow; it is time to hold those who are creating this epidemic to a higher level of social responsibility. My legislation would also increase the mandatory minimum sentence and fine for the manufacture, delivery, and possession of a controlled substance containing heroin. A first violation would require a mandatory term of five years in prison and a fine of $25,000 or the proceeds from the illegal activity. For second and subsequent offenses, the term would increase to seven years and the fine to $50,000 or the proceeds of the illegal activity. Heroin has a high potential for abuse and addiction, has become more available, and its use is increasing at an alarming rate in many parts of our society. It continues to destroy families and damage communities across Pennsylvania. This bill would take a significant step forward in our state’s response to this crisis, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation right away so that we can take action and save lives in Pennsylvania. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation. |
Introduced as HB1666