After seven attempts in the state legislature, Alexandra’s Law has become a reality, passing overwhelmingly by a vote of the people through Prop 36. On Dec. 18, following certification of the election results by the California Secretary of State, the groundbreaking legislation went into effect, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against the fentanyl crisis.

This milestone comes five years to the week after the tragic death of 20-year-old Alexandra Capelouto, whose life was claimed by a counterfeit pill containing a lethal dose of fentanyl two days before Christmas in 2019.

This is the nation’s first drug dealer admonishment law. Under Alexandra’s Law, individuals convicted of a drug-related offense will receive a formal legal admonishment, ensuring they are fully aware of the potential life-ending consequences of their actions if they continue dealing drugs.

“This law aims to prevent a drug dealer from becoming a death dealer and save lives,” Alexandra’s father Matt Capelouto said. “However, if a death tragically occurs as a result of their actions, this law provides prosecutors the necessary tools to pursue murder charges, ensuring justice for victims and accountability for offenders. We hope this will serve as a model for other states and begin to turn the tide in this devastating epidemic.”

Alexandra’s Law faced seven legislative hearings before reaching the voters, demonstrating the persistence of advocates and lawmakers to see it through. First introduced in the legislature by former Sen. Melissa Melendez (R-Riverside) and later championed by Sen. Tom Umberg (D-Orange County), the law gained traction through bipartisan efforts, grassroots advocacy and public support.

For information, visit leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&sectionNum=11369.