[Madison, WI]– The fight against drug abuse and overdose has gained momentum with the floor passage of Senate Bill 101/AB 68, which calls for charging first-degree reckless homicide due to Schedule II narcotics, including fentanyl. The bill has received strong support from Representative Angie Sapik, who has been a vocal advocate of this legislation’s passage.
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid often added to heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. It is responsible for a growing number of accidental overdoses and fatalities. Currently, there is no specific charge for homicide due to fentanyl. The introduction of SB 101 would allow prosecutors to pursue first-degree reckless homicide charges and seek longer prison sentences for drug dealers and distributors that knowingly sell drugs containing fentanyl.
“Drug overdose deaths continue to rise, many of which are due to fentanyl. The passage of SB 101 will help prevent deaths and encourage safer communities,” said Sapik. “This doesn’t ensure the maximum penalty, as all situations are unique, but it does widen the range of potential charges so that those guilty of the most heinous of these crimes can be charged accordingly.”
Representative Sapik also sponsors AB 176, which seeks to expand contraceptive access. The bill will be heard in the Assembly Committee on Health, Aging, and Long-Term Care, where it will receive testimony from medical professionals and stakeholders. Representative Sapik is committed to expanding access to contraceptives to all who need them to help prevent unintended pregnancies.
“Women’s health is a nationwide priority and hindering someone’s ability to get a medication such as birth control is counterproductive to that cause.” said Sapik. “Every woman should have access to affordable and safe contraception options. This doesn’t take away from her relationship with her doctor, it just eases the process of attaining one of the most freely prescribed medications to women.”
