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Bill

AB 1667

Serious felonies: furnishing fentanyl to a minor.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Juan Alanis and 3 co-sponsors

AB 1667 makes furnishing fentanyl to minors a serious felony in California with enhanced criminal penalties to combat youth overdose deaths.

Introduced measure version corrected.
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Bill Summary · AB 1667

Legislative bill overview

AB 1667 proposes to classify the furnishing of fentanyl to a minor as a serious felony in California. The bill would create or enhance criminal penalties for adults who provide fentanyl to individuals under 18 years old. This legislation is currently in early stages, having just been referred to the Public Safety Committee.

Why is this important

Fentanyl overdoses are a leading cause of death among minors in California and nationally, making this a significant public health and safety issue. Enhanced criminal penalties aim to deter distribution networks and hold adults accountable for knowingly exposing children to this potent and deadly drug. The "serious felony" classification could trigger additional consequences including sentencing enhancements and parole restrictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Sentencing implications: Classifying this as a serious felony triggers mandatory minimum sentences and Three Strikes implications, raising concerns about proportionality and prosecutorial discretion
  • Mens rea requirements: Unclear whether the bill requires proof of knowledge that the substance was fentanyl or intent to harm, versus strict liability provisions
  • Distinction from existing law: May overlap with or duplicate existing California statutes on furnishing controlled substances to minors, raising questions about necessity and drafting clarity

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

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