NC S297

Creates a new criminal offense allowing prosecution of pregnant women for assault under G.S. 14-33(a) if they illegally use narcotic drugs while pregnant and their child is born addicted to or harmed by the drug as a result.

Provides an affirmative defense if the woman actively enrolls in an addiction recovery program before the child is born, remains in the program after delivery, and successfully completes it, regardless of whether the child was born addicted or harmed.

Exempts lawful acts, lawful omissions, and lawful medical or surgical procedures performed by licensed health care professionals with the pregnant woman's consent.

Does not amend provisions of Article 6A or Article 11 of Chapter 14 of the General Statutes.

Becomes effective December 1, 2015, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date.