Recognizing National Fentanyl Awareness Day

Floor Speech

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Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Fentanyl Awareness Day, which was celebrated last week on May 7.

In 2023, a record number of our sons' and daughters' lives were taken by opioid overdoses, the majority of which were caused by illicit fentanyl poisoning. Fentanyl poisoning is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45 and is predominantly sourced from our southwest border.

This is unacceptable. We must close that southern border, but there are additional steps we can take to ensure everyone, especially our youth, is protected. I have been a long-time advocate for naloxone, an overdose reversal drug, to be available over the counter. I am so glad the FDA finally took this step so that more people can access this lifesaving medication.

As a pharmacist, I understand just how important access to naloxone is. I carry it around with me in my backpack everywhere I go. I never had to use it, and I hope I don't have to use it, but it is there just in case of an emergency.

I have introduced legislation, the Saving Lives in Schools Act, which would require schools to carry naloxone. Wherever you see a defibrillator, you should see naloxone. It is safe, effective, and easy to use, and it could save a life.

This National Fentanyl Awareness Day, we must band together and commit to ending the fentanyl poisoning epidemic for good.

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