Peace Garden News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak of North Dakota has announced the passage of the HALT Fentanyl Act in the House of Representatives. The legislation, known as H.R. 27, was passed with a bipartisan vote of 312-108 and aims to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act.

Fedorchak, who co-sponsored the bill, emphasized its importance by stating, “North Dakota law enforcement say record amounts of fentanyl are pouring into our state. What’s most disturbing is how traffickers are targeting our kids. They're poisoning our children and leaving families shattered.”

During her speech on the House Floor, Fedorchak discussed how this act will empower law enforcement with necessary authority to seize dangerous substances and take action against traffickers.

Fentanyl and its analogues have been identified as significantly more potent than heroin and morphine. The drug has become a leading cause of death for Americans under 50 years old due to gaps in existing laws and border security issues. "With more than 200 Americans dying every day from fentanyl or opioid-related poisonings, the stakes are high," said Fedorchak. She added that Congress's decision sends a strong message that law enforcement will be equipped to address this issue effectively.

The rise in fentanyl-involved overdose deaths in North Dakota since 2019 underscores the urgency of this legislation. Currently, two residents die each week from unintentional drug overdoses on average, with fentanyl present in 64 percent of these cases since 2019.

The HALT Fentanyl Act seeks to close legal loopholes exploited by traffickers and provide resources for law enforcement while also advancing scientific research into fentanyl-related substances.