substitute for

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 254

A resolution to declare May 7-13, 2024, as Fentanyl Awareness Week in the state of Michigan.

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 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.