This bill, known as HB230, adds a new section to the Code of Alabama 1975 to create the crime of chemical endangerment of a first responder. It states that a person commits this crime if they knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally cause or permit a first responder, coroner, or deputy coroner to be exposed to, ingest or inhale, or have contact with a Schedule I controlled substance or chemical substance while performing their duties. The bill establishes penalties for violations, with the severity of the penalty depending on the level of physical injury caused.

The bill also includes a provision that defines "serious physical injury" to include ingestion, inhalation, or contact with fentanyl, any mixture containing fentanyl, or any synthetic controlled substance fentanyl analogue. It states that chemical endangerment of a first responder that causes physical injury is a Class C felony, while chemical endangerment that causes serious physical injury is a Class B felony. Chemical endangerment that results in the death of the first responder is a Class A felony.

The bill is effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor or its otherwise becoming law. It also states that although the bill may require a new or increased expenditure of local funds, it is excluded from further requirements and application under the Constitution of Alabama of 2022 because it defines a new crime or amends the definition of an existing crime.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-6-30