In a significant move to address the escalating fentanyl crisis, Senator Anthony Palumbo R,C - NY-1) has introduced 'Chelsey's Law' (S.7790), a bill aimed at strengthening penalties for drug-related manslaughter cases. Named after Chelsey Murray, a 31-year-old Suffolk County resident who died of fentanyl poisoning, the proposed law marks a crucial step in the fight against the opioid epidemic.
"Chelsey's Law" is designed to increase penalties for individuals who sell or administer controlled substances, such as fentanyl, that lead to death. Senator Palumbo, in advocating for the law, emphasized its necessity given the dire consequences of the fentanyl crisis. "The fentanyl epidemic has devastated families and stolen the future of many young New Yorkers," he stated. "These individuals are not drug dealers, they are death dealers, and the punishment should match the severity of their crimes."
The legislation was spurred by the tragic death of Murray, who overdosed in August 2022. Her death was directly linked to fentanyl provided by her supplier, highlighting the need for stricter legal measures against those knowingly distributing dangerous substances.
In addition to "Chelsey's Law," Senator Palumbo unveiled a comprehensive legislative package to tackle the overdose crisis. This includes bills such as S.7763, which designates Xylazine, commonly known as 'Tranq,' as a controlled substance. S.7805 aims to expand eligibility for crime victims' assistance funds to include fatalities from drug overdoses resulting from reckless or negligent sales. S.7816 proposes making certain felony offenses involving the manufacture, sale, distribution, or possession with intent to sell synthetic opioids eligible for bail.
Senator Palumbo's commitment to addressing this crisis is evident in his call for immediate action. "Time is a luxury we don't have when addressing this issue," he said. "I urge my fellow colleagues on both sides of the aisle to come together and provide the men and women on the front lines with the tools and resources they need to combat this crisis."
The fentanyl epidemic has had a devastating impact on communities across New York and the United States. In 2022, Suffolk County alone reported more than 400 deaths caused by drug overdoses, with fentanyl being a significant contributor. Nationally, the crisis is even more alarming, with over 110,000 lives lost to fentanyl poisoning in the same year. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration reports that 7 out of every ten pills sold on the streets contain fentanyl.
"Chelsey's Law," co-sponsored by Sens. Palumbo, Mattera, Murray, and Rhoads, was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Rules. If enacted, the law will amend the penal code to ensure stricter penalties for those whose actions contribute to drug-related deaths, emphasizing the need for accountability in the face of a national health crisis.
The introduction of "Chelsey's Law" and the accompanying legislative package represents a significant effort by New York lawmakers to combat the fentanyl epidemic. These measures focus on providing justice for victims and their families while working towards curbing the distribution and impact of lethal substances like fentanyl on communities.