Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) and Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) have introduced a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives supporting the goals and ideals of Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, which is observed on August 21. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the opioid crisis and honoring victims of fentanyl poisoning.
Synthetic opioids such as illicit fentanyl continue to have a significant impact on communities across the United States. According to recent data, 2024 saw one of the highest rates of fentanyl poisoning in U.S. history, with synthetic opioids now representing the leading cause of death among adults aged 18 to 45. Last year, more than 82,100 lives were lost due to these substances.
“When it comes to fentanyl, just one pill can kill. In the last four years, fentanyl became the number one killer of Americans aged 15 to 45, and many do not know they’ve taken a lethal dose of fentanyl until it is too late. This poisoning epidemic cannot continue. As a pharmacist serving in Congress, I feel the call to raise awareness about the dangers of this illicit drug, which is exactly what this resolution does,” said Rep. Carter.
“Far too many communities, neighborhoods, and families know the pain and devastation of losing someone to fentanyl overdose,” said Rep. Tonko. “We are seeking to recognize Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day to forever enshrine those lost to this crisis and to serve as a reminder of the difficult but urgent work we must continue to do to address the disease of addiction and offer those struggling with hope and a path to recovery.”
Recently, Rep. Carter advocated for installing opioid reversal kits in House Office Buildings as part of efforts to increase access to naloxone—a medication that reverses opioid overdoses—at federal facilities.
Rep. Carter has served Georgia’s 1st congressional district since first winning election in 2014 against Brian Reese by securing nearly 61% of votes cast. He was subsequently re-elected in later cycles: defeating Lisa Ring in 2018 with almost 58% support; overcoming Joyce Griggs in 2020 with just over 58%; besting Wade Herring in 2022 with about 59%; and most recently defeating Patti Hewitt in 2024 by earning roughly 62% of ballots.
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