With overdoses up, states look at harsher fentanyl penalties

The Associated Press

RENO, Nev. (AP) – With U.S. overdose fatalities at an all-time high, state legislatures are considering tougher penalties for possession of fentanyl, the powerful opioid linked to most of the deaths.

Proponents say prosecutors and police need more tools to help with the fight because fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are so deadly.

They represent a shift in places where lawmakers had been reducing drug penalties as part of criminal justice reform efforts.

But other advocates worry harsher penalties will result in even more dangerous drug supplies and punish people who really need help.

Read the full story on AP News right here.

(Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

3/20/2023 8:23:27 AM (GMT -5:00)