Bill 119 s 628, also known as the "Fentanyl Public Health Crisis Act," is a proposed piece of legislation in the US Congress that aims to address the growing issue of fentanyl-related deaths and overdoses in the country. The bill seeks to suspend the entry of "covered aliens," or individuals who are not US citizens or legal residents, in response to the fentanyl public health crisis.
The bill outlines that fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, has become a major contributor to the opioid epidemic in the United States, leading to a significant increase in overdose deaths. The legislation argues that the influx of fentanyl into the country from foreign sources, including through illegal immigration, has exacerbated the crisis and poses a serious threat to public health and safety.
If passed, the bill would temporarily halt the entry of covered aliens into the United States in order to prevent the further spread of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs. The suspension would be in effect until the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that the entry of covered aliens no longer poses a risk to public health and safety.
Supporters of the bill argue that restricting the entry of covered aliens is a necessary step to combat the fentanyl crisis and protect American citizens from the dangers of illicit drugs. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential impact of the legislation on immigration policies and the rights of non-citizens.
Overall, Bill 119 s 628 represents a significant effort by lawmakers to address the fentanyl public health crisis through immigration restrictions. The bill is currently under consideration in Congress, and its fate will depend on further debate and deliberation among legislators.