Nathaniel’s Light Law
Legislative Proposal Summary
Purpose
To hold individuals accountable when they expose children to fentanyl or similar deadly substances, even in non-intentional overdose situations. Nathaniel’s Light Law ensures that reckless endangerment leading to a child's death results in serious charges, such as manslaughter or second-degree murder.
Key Proposals
-
Felony Accountability for Exposure
Any adult responsible for a child's fentanyl exposure in the home can face felony charges—intent doesn’t matter.
-
No Mental Health or Addiction Excuses
Mental illness or substance abuse cannot be used to avoid accountability when a child dies due to drug presence.
-
Children’s Protection Clause
If drugs are found in a home with children—or if a child dies—adults will be held responsible, even without witnesses.
-
Mandatory Reporting & Investigation
Every child death involving fentanyl must trigger a full CPS and law enforcement investigation.
-
Enhanced Penalties
Mandatory prison time with no plea deals lowering the charge below felony level.
-
Public Awareness & Prevention
Push for education on the dangers of fentanyl and how to keep homes safe for children.
Legislation
AB 568 (California – 2023-24):
- Increases penalties for those who knowingly provide fentanyl causing death.
- Focuses on dealers; your law targets household exposure.
​
SB 62 (California – 2023):
- Adds sentencing enhancements for drug-induced homicides.
- Doesn’t address negligent exposure by non-dealers.
​
SB 44 – “Alexandra’s Law” (California):
- Gives written warnings to fentanyl dealers for future murder charges.
- Your law applies similar accountability to caretakers in the home.
- Protects children in their homes.
- Holds non-dealers accountable for negligent exposure.
- Focuses on responsibility and outcome, not just intent.
- Requires felony charges for child exposure deaths.