Virginia Republicans Prioritize Curbing Fentanyl Deaths
Virginia Republicans have announced their top legislative priorities for the new year, with a strong focus on curbing fentanyl deaths. Currently, it is difficult to charge drug dealers with the murder of a user who died from fentanyl unless they are in close proximity to the dealer. Senate Minority Leader Ryan McDougle and Senate Republican Caucus Leader Mark Obenshain are leading the effort to address this legislative insufficiency.
Closing the Proximity Gap in Drug Dealer Charges
Under existing case law, drug dealers can only be charged with the murder of a user if they are physically near the individual at the time of the transaction. The proposed law aims to change this by stating that selling drugs, regardless of physical proximity, would still hold the dealer responsible. This change would make it easier to prosecute drug dealers for fentanyl-related deaths and send a strong message that peddling this poison will not be tolerated.
Virginia Democrats’ Response
Virginia Democrats currently hold a slim one-seat majority in the State Senate. Two special elections were held to determine if Republicans could gain a majority. However, projections indicate that Democrats will maintain their majority, requiring bipartisan support for the counter-fentanyl proposal.
Fentanyl Deaths in Virginia
In 2022, Virginia ranked 14th among states for total fentanyl-related deaths, with 1,973 fatalities. The state’s death rate per capita was around the national average, according to CDC data. In comparison, neighboring West Virginia leads the nation in fentanyl deaths per capita, but Virginia had more total deaths.
The Lethal Nature of Fentanyl
According to OnePillCanKill Virginia, seven out of ten pills seized by the DEA contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency of addressing the fentanyl crisis in Virginia and the need for stricter penalties for those involved in its distribution.
Governor Youngkin’s Stance on Prosecuting Fentanyl Dealers
Governor Glenn Youngkin believes that prosecuting fentanyl dealers should receive bipartisan support. He firmly believes that anyone knowingly and intentionally distributing fentanyl should face the full extent of the law. Youngkin’s spokesman, Christian Martinez, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing victims’ families over fentanyl makers and dealers.
Previous Legislation to Combat Fentanyl
In April, Youngkin signed a fentanyl-related bill, SB 469, introduced by Mark Obenshain. The bill imposed felony penalties for the possession, purchase, or sale of encapsulating machines used in the production of illicit drugs. It also made it a felony for individuals to allow minors or mentally incapacitated persons to be present during the manufacture of any substance containing fentanyl.
Support from Virginia’s First Lady
First Lady Suzanne Youngkin expressed her support for the fight against fentanyl and the protection of families and communities in Virginia. She commended the efforts of those working hard to combat the spread of this illicit drug, which has taken the lives of far too many Virginians.
Additional Legislative Priorities
Virginia Republicans also plan to work on implementing Governor Youngkin’s plan to reduce taxation on gratuities. This plan aligns with former President Donald Trump’s “No Tax on Tips” campaign pledge. Additionally, they intend to pursue a ban on transgender women competing in women’s and girls’ sports.
Final Thoughts
Virginia Republicans are prioritizing the fight against fentanyl deaths by proposing legislation that would hold drug dealers accountable, regardless of physical proximity. With a focus on protecting families and communities, they aim to address the fentanyl crisis and implement policies that support hard-working Virginians.
