The bill amends Section 13A-6-3 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which pertains to the crime of manslaughter. The new legal language introduces specific provisions regarding manslaughter related to the distribution of controlled substances containing fentanyl. Under the amended law, a person can be charged with manslaughter if they knowingly sell or distribute a controlled substance that contains fentanyl, and the recipient dies as a result of using that substance. The bill clarifies that it is not a defense if the seller was unaware that the substance contained fentanyl or its analogues, and it exempts licensed medical professionals from this liability.

Additionally, the bill states that manslaughter remains classified as a Class B felony. Although the bill may require new or increased local expenditures, it is exempt from further requirements under Section 111.05 of the Alabama Constitution of 2022 because it establishes a new crime or modifies an existing one. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-6-3
Engrossed: 13A-6-3
Enrolled: 13A-6-3