The bill S. 183 aims to establish the offense of drug-induced homicide in South Carolina by adding Section 16-3-80 to the South Carolina Code of Laws. Under this new provision, a person who knowingly and unlawfully delivers or provides a controlled substance that results in another person's death can be charged with drug-induced homicide. The penalty for this felony offense is imprisonment for up to thirty years. Additionally, the bill clarifies that it is not a valid defense if the deceased contributed to their own death through their actions, unless there is clear evidence of intent to commit suicide.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 16-1-10 to include drug-induced homicide in the categorization of felonies and misdemeanors. It also ensures that the repeal or amendment of any law by this act does not affect any pending actions or liabilities related to those laws. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/14/2025: 16-3-80, 16-1-10
02/19/2025: 16-3-80, 16-1-10
02/25/2025: 16-3-80, 16-1-10
03/05/2025: 16-3-80, 16-1-10
Latest Version: 16-3-80, 16-1-10