This bill amends existing laws to broaden the scope of criminal offenses related to exposing children to controlled substances, moving beyond just methamphetamine to include all controlled substances, except those legally prescribed. The title of the relevant chapter is changed from "Methamphetamine-Related Crimes" to "Controlled Drug-Related Crimes." Definitions are updated to include "controlled substance" and "chemical substance," and the language surrounding prohibited conduct is revised to reflect this broader focus. Specifically, it prohibits activities involving controlled substances in the presence of children or vulnerable adults and allows law enforcement to take children into protective custody for health screenings if they are suspected of being exposed to these substances.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of peace officers when they suspect a child has been exposed to controlled substances, mandating that they report such incidents to the Department of Health and Human Services for investigation. The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting children from exposure to harmful substances and establishes procedures for health screenings in these cases. The effective date for the implementation of this act is set for January 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to enhance child protection laws in relation to drug exposure and ensure that law enforcement has the necessary authority to act in the best interest of children's health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 639-A:1, 639-A:2, 639-A:4