METROPOLIS – State Rep. Patrick Windhorst has introduced HB 1478, a bill aimed at protecting children from fentanyl exposure. The legislation would establish two new criminal offenses: fentanyl-related child endangerment and aggravated fentanyl-related child endangerment.
Under the bill, it would be a crime to knowingly or recklessly expose a child under 18 to fentanyl. The offense becomes aggravated if the exposure results in a child’s death, severe injury, disability, or disfigurement.
The legislation was inspired by two incidents in Massac County where children ingested fentanyl, and the idea for the legislation was brought forward by Massac County State’s Attorney Josh Stratemeyer. If passed, the penalties would include:
- Fentanyl-related child endangerment: Class 2 Felony, up to 7 years in prison.
- Aggravated fentanyl-related child endangerment: Class X Felony, up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $100,000.
This proposal underscores the urgency of addressing the fentanyl crisis and protecting children from its devastating effects.
