Rep. Ted Budd Sponsors Bill to Increase Penalties for Illicit Fentanyl Development
Press Release
Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC) has co-sponsored H.R. 8175, Stop Pills That Kill Act.
The bipartisan bill would ensure that current penalties for possessing the paraphernalia used to manufacture methamphetamine would also apply to possessing the paraphernalia used to create counterfeit pills that contain methamphetamine, fentanyl, and fentanyl analogues.
Rep. Budd said in a statement:
"Deadly drugs like fentanyl have affected thousands of people, damaged families, and devastated communities across the country. Adding the development of fentanyl to existing penalties for methamphetamine will give federal and state governments more options to fight the spread of this lethal drug. Congress can and must act to save lives."
The bill is supported by:
National District Attorneys Association, National Rural Health Association, National Narcotics Officers Association Coalition, Major Cities Chiefs Association, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Community Anti-Drug Coalition, National Association of Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Song for Charlie and Victims of Illicit Drugs.
Background:
On July 9, 2020, Rep. Budd led a 35 member coalition to introduce the bipartisan Drug-Free Communities Pandemic Relief Act, which helped local communities receive Drug Free Communities grants during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On February 11, 2021, Rep. Budd accepted the Congressional Leadership Award from the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America. The award is presented to Congressional leaders in recognition of their sustained commitment as a champion for drug demand reduction and community based substance use prevention.
On December 8, 2021, the Budd-sponsored Opioid Prescription Verification Act, passed the House. The bill helps pharmacists identify and report bad actors who attempt to "pharmacy shop" and stock up and deal in controlled substances.
On October 20, 2021, the Budd-sponsored State Opioid Response Grant Authorization Act passed the House. The bill expanded the State Opioid Response Grant Program to include the battle against all substance abuse, and extended the program until FY 2027.
On March 7, 2022, Rep. Budd introduced the bipartisan Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency (SAFE) Act. The bill permanently schedules all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs.
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