Legislation signed into law this week will impose harsher penalties on drug dealers if a person overdoses and dies on those drugs.
Proponents argue it sends a tough message to drug dealers in the state. But some lawmakers question its unintended consequences.
READ MORE: Drug Dealing Resulting In Death Bill Goes To Governor
Under the bill’s explicit language, if you get pain medicine to treat a toothache and give some to a friend who also has a toothache – and that friend accidentally overdoses and dies – you could face up to 40 years in prison.
Gov. Eric Holcomb says he’s not worried about that.
“I think the local prosecutor has the discretion. When they’re hearing the facts of the case, they’ll make a determination,” Holcomb says.
The new law takes effect July 1.
