WASHINGTON, D.C. (WVDN) – Senators Jim Justice (R-WV) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) introduced the Strengthening Sanctions on Fentanyl Traffickers Act:
“Fentanyl and similar synthetic drugs continue to devastate communities across West Virginia and the country. Much has been done to stop the flow of fentanyl, but we must do more. This bill will build on that progress by strengthening our sanctions, holding foreign entities accountable, curbing the flow of this substance into our state, and ultimately saving lives across our nation,” said Senator Jim Justice.
“Far too many families in New Mexico have felt the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis. More must be done to stop the flow of fentanyl before it reaches our communities. I’m proud to partner with Senator Justice on this vital bipartisan legislation that empowers the government to go after those responsible for trafficking fentanyl. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation to combat the fentanyl crisis, keep deadly drugs off our streets, and help protect communities across New Mexico,” said Senator Ben Lujan.
BACKGROUND:
- The Strengthening Sanctions on Fentanyl Traffickers Act would:
- Direct the president to prioritize sanctions on China-based persons and entities, including pharmaceutical companies, involved in fentanyl trafficking.
- Mandate continued sanctions against certain transnational criminal cartels engaged in fentanyl trafficking.
- Require congressional notification before lifting such sanctions.
- Fentanyl is the leading cause of death among Americans ages 18-45.
- In 2021 alone, 76% of drug overdose deaths in West Virginia were due to fentanyl.
- In fiscal year 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized 21,889 pounds of fentanyl, enough to kill more than 4.9 billion people (assuming a lethal dose of two milligrams)—or enough to wipe out the entire U.S. population more than 14 times over.
- As Governor, Senator Justice effectively worked to reduce overdose deaths from fentanyl and other drugs in West Virginia.
