Legislation sponsored by Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. has advanced through the Senate Judiciary Committee. The bill, known as Senate Bill 635, aims to enhance protections for individuals in recovery from addiction by establishing stricter penalties for drug-related offenses committed near recovery houses.
The proposed legislation directs the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to implement a sentencing enhancement for specific drug offenses occurring within 1,000 feet of a drug and alcohol recovery house. This measure seeks to deter drug dealers from targeting those who are in vulnerable stages of their recovery journey.
“Recovery houses provide a pathway to overcome addiction. Drug dealers who exploit and target those on the road to recovery must be held accountable. This bill strengthens penalties for those that commit these vile acts,” stated Senator Langerholc.
Senate Bill 635 builds upon Act 59 of 2017, which was passed unanimously by the General Assembly. Act 59 established standards for recovery houses to maintain safe environments free from drugs and alcohol. Despite these measures, there have been ongoing issues with controlled substances being sold near these facilities, posing risks to individuals seeking help.
The bill will now proceed to the full Senate for further consideration.
