Tampa Republic

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Laurel Lee expressed approval following the House's passage of H.R. 27, known as the HALT Fentanyl Act. This legislation seeks to enhance law enforcement's capabilities against drug trafficking by permanently classifying fentanyl analogues as Schedule I drugs.

"Our nation has witnessed the inconceivable loss and devastation that the Biden administration’s disastrous border policies have caused in our communities for the past 4 years," stated Rep. Laurel Lee. "I am happy to see the HALT Fentanyl Act pass the House with my resounding support, and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to quickly take up this bill to help end this crisis."

The act aims to make permanent the classification of fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, which are defined by the Controlled Substances Act as having a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Currently, this designation is temporary and set to expire at the end of next month. If not made permanent, there is concern that these substances could become more accessible on streets, thereby limiting law enforcement's ability to address them effectively.