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How to Prevent Fentanyl Overdose Deaths in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY –Legislation that could prevent fentanyl overdose deaths passed the House Alcohol, Tobacco, and Controlled Substances committee unanimously Wednesday February 15th 2023.
House Bill 1987, authored by Minority Whip Rep. Mickey
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Dollens, D-Oklahoma City, would allow Oklahomans to carry fentanyl test strips legally without the strips being considered drug paraphernalia.
“Fentanyl testing strips are an easy, smart way to give people at risk of fentanyl exposure more information to help keep them safe,” Dollens explained. “These strips are reliable and can be a real lifesaver, providing users with a simple way to check for the presence of fentanyl. By testing for the drug, people can take steps to protect themselves and reduce their risk of overdose and death.”
According to the Oklahoma State
Department of Health, fentanyl is one of the leading substances involved in the drug overdose crisis in Oklahoma. In 2019, there were 47 fentanyl overdose deaths. In 2022, the number of deaths ballooned to 300 according to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.
“Oklahoma is facing a serious addiction crisis and synthetic fentanyl is extremely deadly. The hope of this bill is to save vulnerable Oklahomans who are struggling with addiction,” Dollens added.
The bill is headed to the House floor.
