Assembly Bill 904 aims to permanently restore expanded immunities related to controlled substance offenses for individuals who assist others experiencing an overdose or adverse reaction to drugs. The bill amends current law to ensure that an "aider" who seeks emergency medical assistance for another person cannot have their parole, probation, or extended supervision revoked for possessing a controlled substance, provided they attempt to obtain help as soon as practicable. Additionally, the bill creates a new provision that protects the "aided person" from similar revocation if they complete a treatment program or agree to serve a minimum jail sentence if treatment is not feasible.
The bill also mandates that if an aided person faces prosecution for drug-related offenses, the district attorney must offer them a deferred prosecution agreement contingent upon completing a treatment program. This legislation builds on the temporary provisions established by 2017 Wisconsin Act 33, which had expired in 2020, and seeks to enhance public health and safety by encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of legal repercussions.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 961.443(2)(title), 961.443