Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1482

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance or marihuana causing death or serious bodily injury; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

The legislation proposes that if a person delivers or manufactures illicit drugs and this conduct results in death or serious bodily injury to someone, the penalties for that offense would be enhanced. Specifically, it would elevate the offense to a felony of the first degree if death occurs, or a felony of the second degree if serious bodily injury results. This adjustment in the law intends to serve as a deterrent against illegal drug distribution by highlighting the serious repercussions for those whose actions lead to tragic outcomes.

Summary

SB1482 is a legislative proposal that addresses the manufacture and delivery of controlled substances or marijuana that leads to death or serious bodily injury. The bill seeks to amend existing laws to create a specific criminal offense that applies when a person dies or suffers significant harm due to using substances that were knowingly delivered or manufactured by an individual. This aims to tighten accountability and increase penalties for those involved in such illicit activities, particularly when they result in grave consequences for the users.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB1482 appears to be supportive among lawmakers prioritizing public safety and combating drug-related fatalities. Proponents of the bill argue that the increased penalties are necessary to dissuade reckless behavior associated with drug manufacturing and delivery. However, there may be concerns about how these tougher penalties could impact individuals struggling with addiction or drug-related offenses, with some advocating for more rehabilitative approaches rather than punitive measures.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the bill's potential impact on both individuals and broader public guidelines concerning drug enforcement. Critics may question whether simply increasing penalties will effectively address the root causes of substance misuse and addiction, or whether it may exacerbate existing societal issues. The proposed stipulations for penalties might also lead to discussions on fairness and disproportionate sentencing in cases where individuals may have acted without malicious intent.

Companion Bills

TX HB513

Identical Relating to the manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance or marihuana causing death or serious bodily injury; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB2107

Same As Relating to the manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance or marihuana causing death or serious bodily injury; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX HB453

Relating to increasing the criminal penalties for delivery of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 1-B to a child.

TX HB848

Relating to the criminal penalties for possession or delivery of marihuana concentrate.

TX HB291

Relating to adding certain substances to the Texas Controlled Substances Act and regulating kratom and kratom products; increasing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX SB1868

Relating to adding certain substances to the Texas Controlled Substances Act and regulating kratom and kratom products; increasing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB2183

Relating to criminal penalties for possession offenses under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

TX SB1152

Relating to creating the criminal offense of continuous manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance.

TX HB5467

Relating to creating the criminal offense of continuous manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance.

TX HB1572

Relating to mail theft and certain criminal offenses committed against an employee or contractor of a common carrier or delivery service delivering mail; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB1833

Relating to the use of a social media platform in furtherance of an offense involving the delivery of a controlled substance; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB2695

Relating to the use of a social media platform in furtherance of an offense involving the delivery of a controlled substance; increasing criminal penalties.

Similar Bills

CA AB1612

Disposition of controlled substances.

MA H2227

Replacing archaic and stigmatizing language for substance use

US HB830

SAFE Act Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act

MI HB4948

Controlled substances: other; sentencing guidelines for retail sale of products containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine; modify. Amends sec. 13m, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.13m). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4947'25

NJ S829

"CJ's Law"; Criminalizes manufacture, sale, and possession of substances containing kratom.

NJ A1617

"CJ's Law"; Criminalizes manufacture, sale, and possession of substances containing kratom.

NJ A1203

"CJ's Law"; Criminalizes manufacture and distribution of substances containing kratom under certain circumstances.

NJ S2271

"CJ's Law"; Criminalizes manufacture and distribution of substances containing kratom under certain circumstances.