April 6, 2023

Important Reminder: The Dangers of Fentanyl

Friend, 

Everyone must be aware of the dangers of fentanyl. In Milwaukee, there were 17 suspected overdose deaths in the last week. We must ensure everyone is aware of the fentanyl that's being disguised as other substances spreading in our community. 

I've heard from law enforcement and public health officials across Wisconsin who have told me fentanyl overdoses remain their top concern. I've heard from too many families in Wisconsin who have lost a family member from an illicit fentanyl overdose. From 2020 to 2022, fentanyl was identified in 78% of Milwaukee County's overdose deaths. In Congress, I'm working to address this issue. 

Last year, I passed two measures that would ensure funding was being allocated to secure our border points of entry, and to fund the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program (HIDTA) to combat the increase in overdoses from fentanyl. To stop the flow of illicit fentanyl coming into our communities, we need to secure the border, support law enforcement, and make fentanyl-related substances a permanent Schedule I drug. 

Recently, Mexico's President stated fentanyl is a "U.S. problem." I couldn't disagree more. Illicit fentanyl is coming across our southern border from Mexico in record numbers. I led my colleagues in sending a letter to Mexico's President sharing our deep concern with this statement and the increase in fentanyl we are seeing at our ports of entry.

I remain focused on addressing fentanyl in our communities, and supporting law enforcement. As always, if you would like to share a concern with me, or need help with a federal agency, do not hesitate to contact my office. 

On Wisconsin,

Bryan Steil
Member of Congress

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