Senate Bill 92, sponsored by State Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33), would enforce stricter penalties on drug dealers who sell fentanyl that results in the victim overdosing and dying. Individuals convicted of the crime would face a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison under the bill.

The penalty would not apply to drug users who share drugs with friends, family, or individuals seeking medical assistance for people who overdose, according to Mastriano.

The bill, also known as Tyler’s Law, was named after Tyler Shanafelter, a young Pennsylvanian who lost his life after purchasing a laced Percocet, Mastriano said.

“It is my duty as a legislator to do everything I can to stem this ever-increasing scourge on our loved ones. My bill would send a strong message that those fueling the opioid crisis will face severe consequences,” Mastriano said. “I look forward to it becoming law, serving as a legacy for Tyler, his family and other families who have lost loved ones – and it helping to prevent other families from experiencing that harrowing loss.”

The bill will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration.