Sheila Jackson Lee: “We have a serious challenge in this country, a challenge that requires us to act with broadness, swiftness, and, of…”

“We have a serious challenge in this country, a challenge that requires us to act with broadness, swiftness, and, of course, understanding. I rise today to introduce legislation, the Comprehensive Response to Fentanyl-Related Substances and Fentanyl-Laced Substances Act. Mr. Speaker, 8.4 million fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills exist. The seizures were directly linked to at least 39 overdose deaths. Between 2019 and 2021, more than 2,200 adolescents overdosed. Ninety-six percent of them were between the ages of 15 and 19. This legislation will look that squarely in the eye and demand that it cease and desist. We need to increase funding for prevention and treatment programs, programs that provide education and treatment for people who are at risk. Get them while they are subject to being enticed. We need more school-based programs and community-outreach programs. We need to expand access to naloxone, the medication that can reverse the effects, which should be in all schools. We need to crack down on trafficking the little pink pills. Mr. Speaker, we have to save our children, and we have to save them now. Join Congresswoman Jackson Lee and my original cosponsors to support this legislation, the Comprehensive Response to Fentanyl- Related Substances and Fentanyl-Laced Substances Act. Let's save our children. ____________________”