The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved a bill aimed at strengthening the bail determination process for individuals deemed dangerous and addressing the opioid crisis. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-37), is now moving to the full Senate for consideration.
Senate Bill 490, previously introduced as Senate Bill 1120, seeks to prohibit non-monetary bail for individuals considered highly dangerous. This includes those possessing 10 grams or more of fentanyl, having a history of violent crime, assaulting law enforcement officers, or evading arrest on foot.
“It’s unacceptable for dangerous criminals to wander freely in our communities,” said Robinson. “This legislation will ensure proper safeguards are in place to protect our citizens.”
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency highlights that fentanyl is significantly more potent than both morphine and heroin. A mere two milligrams can be lethal to an average person. The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office reports that drug overdoses claim the lives of approximately 14 Pennsylvanians daily.
Robinson urges individuals struggling with substance abuse issues to reach out to Pennsylvania’s Get Help Now hotline at 1-800-622-HELP.
This legislative move is part of broader efforts aimed at enhancing community safety throughout Pennsylvania.
