The fight against the deadly opioid fentanyl just got a significant boost. On June 12th, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a Senate bill reclassifying fentanyl as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, sending the measure to President Biden’s desk for his signature. The vote was a decisive 321-104, with bipartisan support.

This crucial reclassification reflects the severe danger fentanyl poses. As a Schedule I substance, it’s recognized as having a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use, and is subject to strict regulatory controls and penalties. The Senate’s website clearly outlines these criteria.

The bill significantly increases penalties for fentanyl trafficking. Critically, it establishes new offenses, mandating a minimum 10-year prison sentence for trafficking 100 grams or more of fentanyl. This tough stance aims to deter the deadly trade.

Beyond increased penalties, the legislation introduces a new registration process for researchers working with controlled substances. This added layer of oversight will hopefully aid in monitoring and controlling the use of these substances in research settings.