Us Congress Senate Bill SR215

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/17/23

Caption

A resolution supporting the mission and goals of National Fentanyl Awareness Day in 2023, including increasing individual and public awareness of the impact of fake or counterfeit fentanyl pills on families and young people.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges alarming statistics, highlighting that counterfeit pills containing fentanyl have surged by over 500% since 2019. The bill notes that fake pills have contributed to over 106,000 drug-induced deaths within a year, with a significant portion involving individuals under 50. The bill supports law enforcement's initiatives to combat the proliferation of these dangerous drugs, thereby reinforcing the need for effective strategies to both educate the public and safeguard communities, particularly the young.

Summary

SR215 is a resolution supporting the goals of National Fentanyl Awareness Day, designated for May 9, 2023. The bill seeks to raise public awareness about the dangers of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, which have seen a dramatic increase in circulation over recent years. According to the resolution, these counterfeit pills are often marketed deceptively as legitimate prescription medications, posing grave risks to users, particularly the youth. The bill emphasizes the urgent need to address the growing issue of illicit fentanyl and its role in the rising rates of drug-induced deaths among young people.

Contention

Discussion around SR215 may imply potential contention regarding the balance between promoting awareness and addressing systemic issues in drug policy. While the resolution aims to unite various stakeholders in the fight against counterfeit pills, there may be differing opinions on the effectiveness of awareness campaigns alone versus comprehensive approaches addressing the root causes of drug abuse and trafficking. Additionally, the reliance on law enforcement methods brings forth debates about the implications for community relations and drug policy reform.