FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Nicole Reigelman House Democratic Communications Office Phone: 717-787-7895 Fax: 717-783-6839 Email: nreigelm@pahouse.net	State Rep. Harold James D-Philadelphia www.pahouse.com/james

James bill would heighten penalty for using minors in drug trafficking

HARRISBURG, March 7 – State Rep. Harold James, D-Phila., has introduced a piece of legislation to discourage drug dealers from exploiting children when doing business.

James’ bill (H.B. 679) would strengthen the penalties for adults who use children in the trafficking of illegal drugs. The charge would be increased to a second-degree felony, which includes imprisonment for up to 10 years and/or a fine of up to $25,000.

“People who would expose children to the dirty and dangerous world of drug trafficking deserve to be penalized heavily, and increasing the grade of crime would impose a stronger punishment,” James said. “Using children to deliver or receive drugs is just another form of child exploitation.”

James said the bill has 27 co-sponsors.

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