U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.), as first reported by WNDU, today introduced the Civil Justice for Victims of International Fentanyl Trafficking Act. This legislation would allow fentanyl victims or their families to pursue civil action against a foreign state to seek accountability for those who have refused to deter drug traffickers and cartels. China remains the primary source of fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances, which often are trafficked across our porous border by criminal drug networks from Mexico.

“Illicit fentanyl is killing young Hoosiers faster than ever. With this deadly drug flooding across the southern border and into our communities, every town in Michiana is a border town. All too often, illicit fentanyl is made in China, sent to Mexico, and then trafficked across the border and into our neighborhoods. Someone must pay for this devastation,” said Congresswoman Walorski. “My legislation will empower victims and their loved ones to seek justice and accountability from nations that refuse to apprehend those responsible for illicit drug trafficking, such as China and Mexico. Since President Biden refuses to stop the wicked cartels and criminals that prey on Americans, I will keep fighting to secure the border and save Hoosiers’ lives.”

BACKGROUND

Fentanyl, a drug about 100 times more potent than morphine, is a growing threat for young Hoosiers and Americans across the country. Just 2 mg of fentanyl is considered a potentially lethal dose. In 2021, 71,238 American citizens died from fentanyl overdoses, which accounts for two-thirds of the overdose deaths in the United States last year.

The Civil Justice for Victims of International Fentanyl Trafficking Act would allow victims or their families – who were either injured or killed by fentanyl that was trafficked into and within the United States – to pursue civil action against a foreign state that has refused to take action against international drug traffickers and criminal organizations. It would also allow any state attorney general to bring civil action on behalf of the residents of their state who have died or been injured by international fentanyl trafficking. China, Mexico, and India are the leading sources of illicit fentanyl that is trafficked into the United States.

Congresswoman Walorski has been a leader in Congress’ efforts to secure the southern border and stop the flow of illicit fentanyl into Indiana. In addition to supporting a robust border security strategy, she has voted to increase resources to combat substance abuse and addiction, equip law enforcement to protect communities, and provide support for Americans in recovery.

Read the full text of Congresswoman Walorski’s Civil Justice for Victims of International Fentanyl Trafficking Act here.