Rep. Vasquez Votes to Pass Bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act to Combat Illicit Trafficking
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday, February 6, U.S. Congressman Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted to pass the HALT Fentanyl Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act. This critical measure strengthens law enforcement’s ability to combat the spread of illicit fentanyl while ensuring medical research and public health efforts remain a priority.
“Fentanyl is devastating communities across New Mexico, and we must take every possible step to stop its illegal trafficking and prevent more lives from being lost,” said Vasquez. “This bipartisan legislation will provide law enforcement with the necessary tools to crack down on illicit fentanyl while also ensuring that researchers can continue working on life-saving treatments. Addressing the fentanyl crisis requires a comprehensive approach that includes stopping illegal supply chains and expanding access to addiction treatment and recovery services.”
The HALT Fentanyl Act, the House companion to the bipartisan Senate legislation introduced by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), permanently places fentanyl-related substances into Schedule I, classifying it as an imminent hazard to public safety. The bill also includes provisions to protect access to legitimate medical research, to ensure that drug classification is guided by science, and to provide clear and enforceable criminal penalties for fentanyl trafficking.
The legislation is supported by the Drug Enforcement Association of Federal Narcotics Agents, the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies, the National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Directors Association, the National Narcotic Officers' Associations' Coalition and the National District Attorneys Association.
New Mexico is among the states hardest hit by the fentanyl crisis. Rep. Vasquez has been a strong advocate for bipartisan solutions that address the epidemic's supply and demand sides, including investments in border security, public health resources, and law enforcement support. He previously introduced his bipartisan Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act to provide increased funding, technology and staffing for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to keep our communities safe and combat the growing fentanyl crisis.
The HALT Fentanyl Act now moves to the Senate for consideration.
###