The proposed bill seeks to amend West Virginia's Code by increasing the penalty for the delivery of a controlled substance or counterfeit controlled substance that results in death. Specifically, it establishes a determinate sentence of life imprisonment for individuals convicted of this offense, replacing the previous sentencing range of three to fifteen years. Additionally, the bill stipulates that this life sentence cannot be suspended. This legislation will be referred to as "Laurens Law."

Furthermore, the bill maintains existing penalties for individuals who fail to seek medical assistance for someone experiencing an overdose or adverse reaction to a controlled substance, which results in death. Those convicted of this offense would face imprisonment for a term of one to five years. Overall, the bill aims to impose stricter penalties on drug delivery offenses that lead to fatal outcomes, reflecting a commitment to addressing substance use disorders and their consequences in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 60A-4-416