Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott of Texas has declared October 15-21, 2023, as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Week in the state. The proclamation comes as a response to the alarming rise in fentanyl-related deaths and the need to educate Texans about the dangers of this deadly drug.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is the single deadliest drug crisis that Texas and the nation have ever faced. It is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Even a dose as small as two milligrams, barely visible to the human eye, can be lethal.

In recent years, fentanyl has become an illicit substance and is now the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18 to 45. In Texas alone, fentanyl-related deaths have increased by over 500% from 2019 to 2022, claiming the lives of more than 4,800 unsuspecting Texans in just three years.

Governor Abbott highlighted the role of Mexican drug cartels in the smuggling of fentanyl into Texas, stating that despite the efforts of law enforcement, the deadly drug is still being brought into the state to profit from the loss of innocent lives and tear families apart. Mexican drug cartels are strategically manufacturing and distributing fentanyl disguised as painkillers, stimulants, anti-anxiety drugs, and even candy, targeting the future of Texas, particularly children.

To combat this crisis, the State of Texas launched the comprehensive "One Pill Kills" public awareness campaign last year. The campaign aims to educate Texans on how to prevent, recognize, and reverse fentanyl poisonings. In April 2023, Governor Abbott hosted the One Pill Kills Summit, bringing together families, law enforcement, education leaders, state officials, and fentanyl advocates to raise awareness and discuss solutions.

As part of the efforts to address this growing crisis, Governor Abbott signed House Bill 3908, also known as Tucker's Law, which requires public schools to provide research-based instruction on fentanyl abuse, prevention, and poisoning awareness to students in grades 6 through 12. The bill also designates the first-ever Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Week in Texas.

Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Week will play a crucial role in protecting the next generation from this deadly drug. During this week, Texas children will receive age-appropriate instruction about the dangers of fentanyl and fentanyl poisoning prevention. School administrators and staff will also be trained in emergency response protocols and the use of naloxone, a life-saving opioid poisoning reversal medication.

Governor Abbott encourages all Texans to recognize Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Week and participate in appropriate ceremonies and activities to help save lives and ensure that Texas' most precious resource, its children, can fulfill their dreams.

In conclusion, Governor Abbott's proclamation of Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Week in Texas aims to combat the alarming rise in fentanyl-related deaths and educate Texans about the dangers of this lethal drug. By raising awareness and providing education, the state hopes to save lives and protect future generations from the devastating effects of fentanyl poisoning.

Source: Governor Greg Abbott, Office of the Texas Governor

Click this link to access more information: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-proclaims-october-15-21-2023-fentanyl-poisoning-awareness-week-in-texas