Would have created new criminal penalties for those found liable for distributing drugs that led to an overdose. MDDCSAM and other opponents testified that these penalties would most often affect family and friends of the decedent, who often provide drugs in order to help others avoid intolerable withdrawal symptoms.

Opposed by MDDCSAM and a coalition of behavioral health providers who testified that criminal penalties have been ineffective in reducing overdoses, and instead, deter people from seeking help. Similar “Drug-Induced Homicide” bills have been proliferating in other states, apparently part of a trend of moving further toward a criminal justice approach to addressing SUD.

MDDCSAM provided written and in-person testimony in opposition.