This bill proposes significant updates to current statutes regarding the sentencing of individuals convicted of selling dangerous or narcotic drugs, particularly when such sales contribute to the death of a minor. Under the new provisions, if a person is convicted of selling a dangerous drug to a minor and an autopsy indicates that the drug contributed to the minor's death, the individual will be required to serve the aggravated term of imprisonment. Additionally, if the drug involved is methamphetamine or fentanyl, the defendant will face the maximum sentence applicable under existing laws. The bill also mandates that a second autopsy be conducted by a different medical examiner if the initial autopsy suggests drug-related causes of death.

Furthermore, the bill expands the responsibilities of county medical examiners to include determining whether a dangerous or narcotic drug contributed to a minor's death. It also introduces technical changes to existing statutes, such as updating the language regarding fines and sentencing ranges. The legislation is designated as "Noah's Law," reflecting its focus on addressing the serious consequences of drug sales to minors. Overall, these updates aim to enhance accountability and provide stricter penalties for those involved in drug-related offenses that result in the tragic loss of young lives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-3408
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-3408
House Engrossed Version (06/09/2026): 11-594, 13-3407, 13-3408, 11-593, 28-668, 13-1210, 36-670, 11-251.08, 13-703, 13-704, 13-706, 13-708, 41-1604.07, 13-3407.01, 13-701