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HB 1087

Expanding the crime of endangerment with a controlled substance to include fentanyl and other high-potency synthetic opioids.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Barkis and 11 co-sponsors

HB 1087 makes fentanyl and synthetic opioids explicit targets of Washington's endangerment statute, increasing criminal accountability for possessing or distributing substances that endanger others.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · HB 1087

Legislative bill overview

HB 1087 expands Washington's endangerment crime statute to explicitly include fentanyl and other high-potency synthetic opioids as substances that trigger criminal liability when their possession or distribution endangers others. Currently, the endangerment law applies to controlled substances generally, but this bill makes synthetic opioids a specific focus with potentially enhanced or clarified penalties.

Why is this important

Fentanyl and synthetic opioids have dramatically increased overdose deaths nationwide, including in Washington. This bill clarifies criminal accountability for individuals whose actions with these particularly deadly drugs put others at risk—a targeted response to the current opioid crisis that prosecutors may use to pursue more aggressive charges in cases involving these substances.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of liability: The bill could criminalize individuals struggling with addiction who inadvertently endanger others through their own substance use, raising questions about whether criminal penalties or treatment are more appropriate responses
  • Sentencing severity: Expanding what qualifies as endangerment may lead to harsher sentences for conduct already prosecutable under existing law, potentially affecting sentencing equity and proportionality
  • Definition clarity: The phrase "high-potency synthetic opioids" may be vague in practice, creating inconsistent enforcement across jurisdictions and potentially capturing substances legislators didn't intend to include

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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