The resolution urges the United States Congress to enact the HALT Fentanyl Act, which aims to address the ongoing crisis of drug overdose deaths, particularly those related to illegal fentanyl. In 2023, approximately 107,000 drug overdose deaths were reported in the U.S., with nearly 70 percent attributed to opioids like illegal fentanyl. While there has been a recent decline in overdose deaths, they remain the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 44. The resolution highlights the dangers of illegally made fentanyl, which is often mixed with other drugs and poses a significant risk due to its potency and addictive nature.

The HALT Fentanyl Act seeks to permanently classify illegal fentanyl and related substances as Schedule I under the federal Controlled Substances Act, which would impose stricter regulatory controls and criminal penalties for trafficking these substances. This classification aligns with New Jersey's existing laws, which already categorize illicit fentanyls as Schedule I substances. The resolution emphasizes that federal action is necessary to enhance efforts to combat the illicit manufacturing and distribution of these dangerous drugs, ultimately aiming to reduce the number of overdose deaths and protect public health.