Butler County Today

The House Homeland Security Committee is taking action to address the drug and human trafficking crises in Ohio through House Bill 230, according to State Rep. Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester). The legislation aims to combat the staggering increase in drug overdoses, particularly fentanyl poisoning, in Ohio and across the United States.

During a recent committee meeting, Mark Murphy, a constituent of Gross and resident of Butler County, provided compelling testimony in support of the bill. Murphy emphasized the importance of passing the legislation not just for his sake, but for the safety of all families. He urged the committee members to recognize their shared duty in protecting America's sons and daughters from the devastating effects of drug and human trafficking. Murphy stated, "The battle against this darkness is not just mine; it is ours, and together, we must stand against the tides of despair, fighting for a future where no more hearts are broken, and no more lives are lost."

Testimony from the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police revealed that over 80% of unintentional drug overdose deaths in Ohio involve fentanyl. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that in 2023 alone, troopers have seized a staggering 114 pounds of fentanyl, equivalent to almost 26 million fatal doses. These statistics highlight the urgent need to protect our communities from the poisonous war that is plaguing our state.

State Rep. Gross emphasized the importance of safeguarding our children, friends, and family from the devastating effects of drug and human trafficking. She stated, "It is critical that we protect our children, friends, and family from the poisonous war that is plaguing our communities."

House Bill 230 will continue to receive hearings in the House Homeland Security Committee as Ohio lawmakers work towards combating the drug and human trafficking crises that are threatening the safety and well-being of our communities.

To learn more, click on this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/jennifer-gross/news/gross-recognizes-legislation-to-combat-drug-and-human-trafficking-117177