Washington, D.C. - Today, the House passed H.R. 467, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act or the HALT Fentanyl Act. This legislation would make the currently temporary Schedule I category for fentanyl, or anything mixed with it, permanent. It would supply law enforcement with the tools needed to keep these dangerous drugs off the streets. And, it would support research efforts to understand the effects of fentanyl-related substances on people's health.
"Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 - 49. It affects every income level in every demographic in every corner of the country. Even in Minnesota's rural and relatively safe 7th District, one of the top issues I hear from police officers is about the dire need to get a handle on fentanyl overdoses," said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). "It is a heartbreaking epidemic that must be stopped. I am proud of the House for passing the HALT Fentanyl Act and taking an important first step towards ending this epidemic, giving law enforcement tools they need to keep illegal and deadly fentanyl, and anything mixed with it, off the street."
This bill passed 289-133 and is on its way to the Senate.
