MARYSVILLE—The City of Marysville adopted a new ordinance that expands protections beyond methamphetamine‑related exposure and ensuring dangerous substances such as fentanyl, heroin and other Schedule I and II drugs are covered. The law becomes effective August 4.
The new offense, Endangerment with a Controlled Substance, addresses rising child and dependent‑adult exposure cases by protecting children and dependent adults from controlled substance exposure, the Marysville PD said.
“Our officers are encountering more situations where young children are exposed to fentanyl and other dangerous substances. These cases are heartbreaking and preventable. This ordinance gives the Marysville Police Department a meaningful tool to intervene, protect victims and address unsafe conditions before they lead to tragedy,” said Marysville Police Chief Erik Scairpon.
In September of last year, officers assisted Child Protective Services with a home visit after a 2-year-old staying at the residence tested positive for fentanyl during a hospital visit. The 2-year-old had documented previous overdoses that involved police intervention however the incidents had only been reported to CPS, who had temporarily removed the child from the custody of the parents, and no one was charged with a crime during those incidents.
While Washington’s RCW 9A.42.100 criminalizes exposing a dependent child or adult to methamphetamine or certain precursor chemicals, it does not address exposure to other highly dangerous substances. Marysville’s new ordinance closes that gap. According to the Washington State Department of Health: Opioids including prescription pain medication, heroin, fentanyl—are causing a serious public health and community crisis across the nation. Each day about two people die of an opioid-related overdose in Washington, driven by accidental ingestion, unsafe drug environments and the presence of counterfeit pills in homes. These fatalities highlight the heightened vulnerability of children and dependent adults when dangerous substances are accessible.
The ordinance (MMC 6.55.020) establishes two levels of offenses:
- First‑degree endangerment (gross misdemeanor): Knowingly or intentionally permitting a child or dependent person to be exposed to, ingest, inhale or have contact with a Schedule I or II controlled substance.
- Second‑degree endangerment (misdemeanor): Negligently permitting such exposure.
“It was important for Marysville to act. This law closes a dangerous gap in state protections and ensures our police officers have the tools they need to hold people accountable when their actions put children or dependent adults at risk,” said Marysville Mayor Jon Nehring.
This ordinance reflects a continued commitment by the mayor, City Council and the Marysville Police Department to strengthen public safety and protect the community’s most vulnerable. It follows the successful adoption of mandatory minimum sentencing for repeat public‑disorder offenses, giving officers additional tools to address dangerous behavior and reduce crime. Together, city leadership and MPD are taking proactive steps to confront the impacts of fentanyl and other controlled substances, safeguard children and dependent adults, and support a safer Marysville for all.
Source: Marysville PD
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
