2024 House Resolution 254

Whereas, Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, and 30 to 50 times more potent than heroin. Just two milligrams—the equivalent of a few grains of salt—is a potentially lethal dose; and

Whereas, Fentanyl has been increasingly found mixed with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit pills, contributing to the current opioid crisis; and

Whereas, Most recent cases of fentanyl-related overdose are linked to illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which is distributed through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like effect. It is often added to other drugs because of its extreme potency, which makes drugs cheaper, more powerful, more addictive, and more dangerous; and

Whereas, The Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels are hiding fentanyl in fake pills that look like prescription medications, such as oxycodone, Xanax, and Percocet. The cartels are also mixing fentanyl powder into other drugs, including cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. Many of the people poisoned by fentanyl had no idea they were even taking it; and

Whereas, The cartels, their members, and their associates continue using social media applications and encrypted communications platforms to sell pills and powders that are advertised as legitimate medications or other substances, but actually contain fentanyl; and

Whereas, The Detroit Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration confiscated 1,168 pounds of fentanyl in 2023, 70% more than it seized the previous year, according to a statement from federal authorities; and

Whereas, Fentanyl has been a significant contributor to the rise in drug overdose deaths in the State of Michigan and across the United States; and

Whereas, Fentanyl-related deaths in Michigan have surged dramatically in recent years, there were 2,539 opioid overdose deaths recorded in Michigan in 2021; and

Whereas, The impact of fentanyl on communities in Michigan has been profound, affecting individuals, families, and neighborhoods across the state; and

Whereas, Raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl is crucial to combating its spread and preventing further loss of lives; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 7-13, 2024, as Fentanyl Awareness Week in the State of Michigan. We call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.