Georgia is taking a tougher stance on the fentanyl crisis with the implementation of “Austin’s Law.” This new legislation holds drug dealers accountable for overdoses caused by their product containing fentanyl. Previously, dealers faced charges only if they directly sold fentanyl itself.
Under Austin’s Law, if someone dies from an overdose of a drug containing fentanyl, the dealer who supplied the fatal substance can be charged with aggravated involuntary manslaughter.
This carries a potential sentence of 10 to 30 years in prison or even life imprisonment as per to the source 13wmaz
“This law is all about making people think twice before selling this poison,” said Tripp Talley, program director at Macon Recovers, an addiction treatment center.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is significantly more potent than heroin and has been a major contributor to the rise in overdose deaths nationwide.
Law enforcement officials acknowledge the challenges in proving a direct link between a specific dealer and a fatal overdose.
However, they believe this law sends a strong message of deterrence to those peddling dangerous substances.
While education and treatment programs remain crucial aspects of tackling the opioid crisis, Austin’s Law signifies a shift towards holding drug dealers criminally liable for the devastating consequences of fentanyl distribution