Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4795

Introduced
7/20/23  

Caption

Fentanyl Kills Act

Impact

If enacted, the Fentanyl Kills Act would significantly alter the legal landscape surrounding drug trafficking. It broadens the definition of involvement in fentanyl trafficking, extending beyond direct actions to include attempts and conspiracies, thereby increasing the potential for severe legal repercussions. This shift emphasizes a more punitive approach to tackling the fentanyl crisis and serves to deter illegal manufacturing and distribution activities. Law enforcement agencies may be empowered to pursue and prosecute cases related to fentanyl with greater vigor.

Summary

House Bill 4795, known as the 'Fentanyl Kills Act', focuses on amending title 18, United States Code to address the severe implications of fentanyl trafficking. The bill adds provisions that would classify anyone involved in the trafficking of fentanyl as having attempted to commit murder, carrying severe penalties. This change reflects a growing concern over the opioid crisis and seeks to establish stricter legal consequences for those involved in the production and distribution of fentanyl and associated substances.

Contention

Despite its aims to combat fentanyl-related crimes, the Fentanyl Kills Act may provoke contention among various stakeholders. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups may argue that imposing such severe penalties could overwhelm the judicial system and lead to disproportionate punishments for individuals involved in lower-level trafficking offenses. Critics may also raise concerns regarding the implications of treating drug trafficking equivalently to murder, advocating for a more rehabilitative approach to drug-related issues rather than purely punitive measures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB4105

Stop Pills That Kill Act

US HB2947

Justice Against Sponsors of Illicit Fentanyl Act of 2023

US HB3215

Fentanyl Trafficker Elimination Act

US SB1271

FEND Off Fentanyl Act Fentanyl Eradication and Narcotics Deterrence Off Fentanyl Act

US HB3570

Comprehensive Response to Fentanyl-Related Substances and Fentanyl-Laced Substances Act

US SB1785

Stop Fentanyl Overdoses Act of 2023

US SB2059

Strengthening Sanctions on Fentanyl Traffickers Act of 2023

US SB389

Justice Against Sponsors of Illicit Fentanyl Act of 2023

US HB5266

Interdiction of Fentanyl in Postal Mail at Federal Prisons Act

US HB3244

Stop Fentanyl Money Laundering Act of 2023

Similar Bills

CA AB1673

California Fentanyl Abuse Task Force.

CA SB19

Fentanyl Misuse and Overdose Prevention Task Force.

CA AB2429

Pupil instruction: health education courses: fentanyl.

CA AB33

Fentanyl Misuse and Overdose Prevention Task Force.

CA AB3224

California Fentanyl Abuse Task Force.

CA AB2341

Criminal procedure: sentencing credits.