Lycoming News

The Senate has advanced significant legislation to enhance crime prevention measures in Pennsylvania. According to Sen. Dave Argall, these bills are designed to hold dangerous criminals accountable and ensure community safety.

“These important bills will keep our families and communities safe,” stated Argall. “Criminals need to know that if they commit these crimes, there will be serious consequences.”

Among the approved legislation is Senate Bill 92, introduced by Sen. Doug Mastriano. The bill mandates a minimum 25-year sentence for persons convicted of selling fentanyl that results in a fatal overdose. This aims to deliver a stringent message to those contributing to the opioid crisis.

Additionally, Senate Bill 471, sponsored by Sen. Dan Laughlin, mandates that prosecutors notify U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement when a criminal defendant is unlawfully present in the United States. This legislation ensures that such individuals are subject to federal removal proceedings while also banning sanctuary policies that hinder communication between local law enforcement and federal agencies.

Senate Bill 490, proposed by Sen. Devlin Robinson, seeks to eliminate non-monetary bail for high-risk individuals. This includes those found with more than 10 grams of fentanyl, those with violent crime histories, and individuals who have assaulted law enforcement officers.

“These bills fight crime, protect Pennsylvania families, and ensure that our law enforcement officials have the tools they need to uphold justice,” Argall mentioned. He further emphasized that each measure contributes to broader safety efforts across Pennsylvania.