NC H506

Creates a new felony offense of intentional chemical endangerment of a child, making it a Class D felony for any person who intentionally causes or permits a child under 16 years of age to ingest, inhale, or have contact with any controlled substance under North Carolina's Controlled Substances Act.

Establishes a Class G felony for negligent chemical endangerment of a child when a person acts in reckless disregard and causes or permits a child under 16 to ingest, inhale, or have contact with controlled substances.

Provides that causing the death of a child under 16 through negligent chemical endangerment is a Class B1 felony, provided the negligent violation is the proximate cause of the child's death.

Includes an affirmative defense allowing lawfully prescribed controlled substances administered to a child in accordance with prescription instructions.

Becomes effective December 1, 2017, and applies only to offenses committed on or after that date.