Phil Plummer | The Ohio House of Representatives
Phil Plummer | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Representatives Cindy Abrams and Phil Plummer presented their case for House Bill 88 to the House Judiciary Committee, aiming to tackle drug and human trafficking issues in Ohio. The bill is a response to the rising number of drug overdoses, particularly those involving fentanyl.
"We are committed to continuing to work with our law enforcement and prosecutors on this life-saving legislation," stated Abrams. "It is crucial that we move swiftly to protect our children and greater communities from the current drug and human trafficking epidemics."
Plummer added, "Drug and human trafficking are a tragic reality in our state—our home. We have a responsibility to partner with our law enforcement, hold individuals accountable for their actions, and fight hard to keep our communities safe."
The proposed legislation includes several measures: increasing charges for trafficking cocaine, fentanyl-related compounds, heroin, and methamphetamine; expanding the definition of human trafficking; imposing a five-year mandatory minimum prison term for fentanyl-related deaths; designating August as "Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month"; and mandating public schools develop curriculum about fentanyl dangers.
House Bill 88 will undergo further evaluation by the Judiciary Committee.
Alerts Sign-up