Congresswoman Walorski introduces legislation to seek justice for illicit fentanyl victims

WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) introduced a new bill that would allow fentanyl victims or their families to pursue civil action against a foreign state that has refused to act against international drug traffickers and criminal organizations.

The Civil Justice for Victims of International Fentanyl Trafficking Act would also give any state attorney general the authority to bring civil action on behalf of the residents of their state who have died or been injured by international fentanyl trafficking.

“Illicit fentanyl is killing young Hoosiers faster than ever,” said Congresswoman Walorski.  “With this deadly drug flooding across the southern border and into our communities, every town in Michiana is a border town.”

Fentanyl, a drug about 100 times more potent than morphine, claimed over 70,000 lives in the United States last year, accounting for two-thirds of overdose deaths nationwide.

Walorski believes her bill would do more to combat fentanyl trafficking than is currently being done.

“My legislation will empower victims and their loved ones to seek justice and accountability from nations that refuse to apprehend those responsible for illicit drug trafficking,” said Walorski.  “I will keep fighting to secure the border and save Hoosiers’ lives.”