H.R.27 - Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act; HALT Fentanyl Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The HALT Fentanyl Act aims to combat fentanyl trafficking by amending the Controlled Substances Act. It introduces class-wide scheduling for fentanyl-related substances, treating them as Schedule I drugs. The act also streamlines research registration processes for Schedule I controlled substances and addresses technical corrections related to controlled substances dispensing.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to stricter penalties for fentanyl-related offenses, potentially deterring trafficking. It could also expedite research into fentanyl and related substances by simplifying the registration process. The changes may also impact the availability and accessibility of certain research chemicals.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced availability of fentanyl and related substances, potentially saving lives.
- Simplified research processes, fostering development of countermeasures and treatments.
- Increased penalties for traffickers, deterring criminal activity.
- Clarification of existing regulations, reducing ambiguity and improving enforcement.
- Enhanced coordination between federal agencies in combating the opioid crisis.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for overly broad application, capturing substances with legitimate uses.
- Possible hindrance to legitimate research due to stricter regulations, despite streamlining efforts.
- Increased burden on law enforcement and the justice system due to increased prosecutions.
- Unintended consequences for individuals with substance use disorders, potentially exacerbating the opioid crisis.
- Possible challenges in differentiating between fentanyl-related substances, leading to legal disputes.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) by regulating interstate and international drug trafficking. It also falls under Congress's power to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. The penalties outlined in the act must adhere to the Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment, and due process rights under the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments must be respected in enforcement.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).