25 State AGs Urge Senate to Pass HALT Fentanyl Act

A coalition of 25 state attorneys general is urging the U.S. Senate to pass the HALT Fentanyl Act, which aims to close a legal loophole by permanently classifying all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs. These substances, often more harmful than prescription fentanyl, have contributed to a crisis exacerbated by Mexican cartels smuggling Chinese-made fentanyl analogs across the U.S. border. The House of Representatives has already passed the act with strong bipartisan support, and proponents argue that permanent classification would enable more effective prosecution of traffickers and better utilize federal resources in combating the fentanyl epidemic. The temporary classification of these substances is set to expire on March 31, 2025, and the act is seen as crucial in addressing the high number of American deaths attributed to fentanyl, which have nearly equaled those from World War II. Despite strong advocacy, there are concerns from some groups about the act's definition criteria, fearing potential overreach. The pressing need for legislative action is underscored by the fact that in just one year, enough fentanyl was seized to potentially kill the entire U.S. population five times over.