Pulaski Times

Opioids have long been a concern in Arkansas and across the United States, with fentanyl emerging as a particularly lethal threat. In 2023, fentanyl overdoses claimed approximately 74,000 American lives. Arkansas reported over 500 drug overdose deaths that year and nearly 600 the previous year. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) states that fentanyl overdose is now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45.

Members of Congress have heard numerous stories from families affected by drug overdoses. "That is why we have taken proactive steps to fight back against the opioid crisis through a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, education, treatment and recovery," they said.

The increase in illicit fentanyl use has prompted action to prevent its entry into the country. There are concerns about border control issues contributing to this problem. "Sadly, the rise in fentanyl usage is directly tied to the lack of operational control at our country’s borders – especially the southern border with Mexico," officials noted.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized record amounts of fentanyl over two fiscal years—nearly 50,000 pounds capable of producing over two billion lethal doses. President Trump declared a national emergency on the southern border where most seizures occur. The Senate recently passed legislation providing law enforcement with more tools to combat fentanyl trafficking.

Despite being classified as a controlled substance, traffickers produce analogs to bypass regulations. The DEA's temporary restriction on all fentanyl-related substances will expire soon unless extended by new legislation. Recently, the Senate approved the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act to permanently classify these substances under federal law—a move supported by Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin and other officials.

Efforts extend beyond legislative measures; investments are also being made locally in Arkansas. "I proudly worked to bring a significant investment in this effort to Arkansas," one official stated regarding securing $5 million for an Opioid Prevention Project administered by the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Congress aims to continue building on progress made so far against deadly opioids like fentanyl affecting communities nationwide.