Bill 118 s 4419, also known as the DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act of 2024, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of addressing the growing issue of fentanyl and xylazine in the United States. ...
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is responsible for a significant portion of overdose deaths in the country, while xylazine is a veterinary drug that is often mixed with fentanyl to increase its potency.
The bill proposes several measures to combat the spread of these dangerous substances. One key provision of the bill is the establishment of a grant program to help law enforcement agencies and first responders acquire and utilize advanced detection technology to identify fentanyl and xylazine in the field. This technology is crucial in preventing accidental exposure to these substances and in prosecuting those who manufacture and distribute them.
Additionally, the bill calls for increased penalties for individuals caught trafficking fentanyl and xylazine, as well as for those who knowingly sell or distribute these substances to individuals who are unaware of their presence. This is intended to deter individuals from engaging in the illicit trade of these dangerous drugs and to hold accountable those who profit from their sale.
Overall, the DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act of 2024 is a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at addressing the growing threat of fentanyl and xylazine in the United States. By providing law enforcement agencies with the tools and resources they need to combat the spread of these substances, as well as by increasing penalties for those who traffic in them, the bill seeks to protect the public from the devastating effects of these dangerous drugs.