WASHINGTON, D.C.— On April 29, Fentanyl Awareness Day, U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) and Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) introduced bicameral legislation to combat the fentanyl epidemic in the United States. The lawmaker’s legislation would allow fentanyl distributors who sell or give out fentanyl that results in a death to be punishable by federal felony murder charges. Currently, federal charges do not consider the varying degrees of severity related to a death caused by fentanyl. Amending current law to up the penalty for distributing deadly fentanyl to felony murder will build upon efforts to stop the flow of illicit substances into our communities. Drug overdoses remain the leading cause of death for young Americans aged 18-44.

 

“I served 20 years in the military, I know what war looks like. Make no mistake, the current fentanyl crisis our country is experiencing is not random—it’s an intentional act of war against the American people. Drug cartels have taken advantage of loopholes at our borders to peddle illicit drugs into our country, meanwhile, our communities pay the price,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales. “My bill sends a strong message to those who work with cartels and other bad actors—if you sell the drug and take an innocent life, justice will be delivered. Our law enforcement agencies are in overdrive combatting the drug epidemic in America, it’s time to take action and up the penalties for fentanyl dealers.” 

 

“I have seen firsthand how the scourge of fentanyl has inflicted incredible tragedy on communities across Iowa,” said Senator Joni Ernst. “I have worked for years to protect Americans and stop this deadly epidemic. Increasing the severity of the punishment for the drug dealers responsible for the deaths of too many Iowans is long overdue.”

 

As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Tony Gonzales has consistently advocated and secured funding for mental health and addiction services and counter-drug trafficking efforts. 

 

To read Fox News Digital’s story on the bill, click here.

 

For bill text, click here.