Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn, Jon Ossoff, James Lankford, and Kyrsten Sinema have announced that their bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing law enforcement's ability to detect fentanyl has passed the House and is now awaiting the President's signature. The Detection Equipment and Technology Evaluation to Counter the Threat of (DETECT) Fentanyl and Xylazine Act seeks to authorize the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct research, development, testing, and evaluation on equipment designed to improve drug detection capabilities.

Senator Cornyn emphasized the importance of providing law enforcement with tools to combat fentanyl, stating: “Fentanyl is an unyielding silent killer that lurks in the shadows of our communities, and we must assist law enforcement in rooting it out to stop the loss of more innocent lives.” He urged for swift presidential approval.

Senator Ossoff highlighted the impact on Georgia families: “Illegal fentanyl trafficking is devastating Georgia families and putting our kids at risk,” adding that bipartisan efforts were crucial in passing this legislation.

Senator Lankford addressed border security concerns linked to fentanyl trafficking: “For anyone outside of the Washington, DC beltway, there is no doubt that the border is in chaos,” noting Oklahoma's struggles with fentanyl’s effects. He called for DHS action against illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

Senator Sinema pointed out Arizona's role as a major entry point for fentanyl into the U.S.: “Over half of the fentanyl coming into the U.S. comes through Arizona,” she said. The bill aims to provide new detection tools for law enforcement.

In addition to Senate support, Representatives Nick LaLota, Lou Correa, and Don Davis spearheaded companion legislation in the House.

The DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act outlines responsibilities for DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), including collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on improving drug detection equipment. It proposes focus areas such as portable detection devices requiring minimal sample handling, technology capable of analyzing complex mixtures, and AI-driven substance identification.

The act also mandates adherence to federal guidelines on artificial intelligence risk management while prioritizing emerging threats identified by DEA reports.

The legislation has received endorsements from several organizations including the National Association of Police Organizations and National Border Patrol Council.