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'Death by Distribution' bill that could send drug dealers to prison for 40 years is now a NC law

Supporters say the 'death by distribution' law will help fight the opioid epidemic, but critics say it will deter people from calling 911 during an overdose.

RALEIGH, N.C. — Legislation designed to give North Carolina prosecutors a new tool to convict drug dealers and to require public schools to teach more finance education are now law.

The bills are among a dozen that Gov. Roy Cooper said on Monday he's signed into law. 

One bill makes it a felony to illegally sell drugs that result in an overdose death, punishable by up to 40 years in prison. Supporters say the 'death by distribution' law will help fight the opioid epidemic, but critics say it will deter people from calling 911 during an overdose.

Another new law requires high school students to pass a personal finance and economics class to graduate. Some teachers worry this will detract from other instruction, but supporters believe financial literacy is critical to real-world success. 

'Death by Distribution': People accused of selling drugs that contribute to an overdose face high-level felony conviction

OTHER STORIES

New NC Bill Would Create New Charge for Opioid Dealers

'People Are Going To Be Scared To Dial 911': Greensboro Father Who Lost Daughter To Heroin Overdose Opposes 'Death By Distribution' Bill

'We Have To Come At This From Every Angle': Winston-Salem Mother In Support Of 'Death By Distribution' Bill, Creating New Charge For Opioid Dealers

Man Charged With Murder in Woman's Overdose Death: Randolph Co. Sheriff

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