Reps. Fry and Gallego to propose bipartisan bill for fentanyl crisis.
EXCLUSIVE: Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Address Fentanyl Crisis
Reps. Russell Fry (R-SC) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) are joining forces to tackle the devastating effects of the fentanyl crisis. Their proposed legislation, known as the Fentanyl Crisis Research and Evaluation Act, aims to shed light on the impact this crisis is having on taxpayers and explore potential relief measures.
What the Bill Entails
The Fentanyl Crisis Research and Evaluation Act mandates a comprehensive study by the comptroller general of the United States. This study will examine the repercussions of the fentanyl crisis on various aspects, including the labor market, demographic groups, industry sectors, federal tax revenue, Medicaid and other health programs, housing stability, and state finances. The findings will be presented in a report to Congress.
The bill also seeks to identify actionable steps that the federal government can take to alleviate the burden of the fentanyl crisis on states and efficiently address the issue.
Why This Bill Matters
“To combat the fentanyl crisis effectively, we need to understand the full scope of the problem,” stated Rep. Gallego. “By reporting on the impacts of the fentanyl crisis on the labor market, health programs, housing, and more, the Fentanyl Crisis Research and Evaluation Act will give Congress the information we need to mitigate the burden on states and the American people. I’m proud to have worked on a bipartisan basis with Rep. Fry to introduce this bill.”
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals a concerning trend. Overdose deaths have been on the rise, reaching a staggering 109,680 in 2022.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, were responsible for 70,601 overdose deaths in 2021.
Addressing the Crisis
“Fentanyl is the deadliest drug our country has faced, and it has taken the lives of too many Americans,” emphasized Rep. Fry. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will give the federal government a deeper understanding of the implications of this ongoing crisis. There is no other study that includes the specific information that this legislation requires. It’s important for lawmakers to understand the effects of this deadly drug on our country so we can pinpoint solutions to address it.”
By taking a proactive approach and conducting a thorough study, Fry and Gallego hope to equip lawmakers with the necessary knowledge to combat the fentanyl crisis effectively and protect the well-being of the American people.
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