Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act of 2025

This bill would change federal murder law to treat certain deadly fentanyl cases as first-degree murder. If someone distributes fentanyl and a person dies from using it, that distributor could face life in prison or the death penalty. The bill sets specific amounts: at least 2 grams of a mixture with fentanyl, or at least 0.5 grams of a mixture with a fentanyl analogue. It also requires that the distributor knew, or had reason to know, the substance contained fentanyl or a fentanyl analogue.

Key points

• Who is affected: People who distribute fentanyl or fentanyl analogues that lead to a user’s death.
• What changes: These deaths would be punished as first-degree murder, with penalties of life in prison or the death penalty; the law defines “distributing fentanyl” to include the amount thresholds above and a knowledge requirement.
• Where: Applies under federal law across the United States.
• When: Would apply if this bill becomes law.