Legislation

HB295 helps protect individuals who want to report an overdose event, either for themselves or someone else, but may be afraid to face criminal penalties for substance abuse if they do so. This bill empowers prosecutors and courts to dismiss charges against individuals who help overdose victims if it's the individual's first time being charged with the offense and they plan to seek substance abuse treatment. This bill is a common-sense measure that could save lives.

HB331 makes blocking traffic or sidewalks with two or more people a third degree felony, which is punishable by up to five years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine. This bill also provides criminal enhancements for wearing masks during the commission of a crime, and creates a civil cause of action to sue people who block roadways or sidewalks. These penalties erode the public's ability to exercise their First Amendment right to protest and chill constitutionally protected speech. HB331 would make felons out of protestors.