Senator Hassan Statement on Report Confirming Fentanyl as Number One Killer in Opioid Epidemic

WASHINGTON – Senator Maggie Hassan released the following statement today after a report published in the journal JAMA confirmed that synthetic opioids such as fentanyl have surpassed prescription opioids as the top killer in the opioid epidemic:

“This report confirms what we already know to be true in New Hampshire – fentanyl is the deadliest opioid and it is killing more people faster, with smaller amounts,” Senator Hassan said. “The spread of synthetic opioids like fentanyl is exacerbating the devastating opioid crisis that’s taking lives every day and taking a massive toll on our economy in New Hampshire, which is why I’m at the U.S.-Mexico border this week focusing on how we can strengthen drug interdiction efforts and prevent the flow of fentanyl across our borders. We know that to combat this crisis we must – in addition to supporting law enforcement efforts – implement a comprehensive strategy that includes strengthening prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts. I will continue working across the aisle to ensure that those on the front lines and those struggling with addiction have the support and resources from the federal level that are necessary to turn the tide of this deadly epidemic.”

Senator Hassan is at the U.S.-Mexico border this week, meeting with Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents on the ground to discuss how Congress can better support their efforts to detect, intercept, and halt the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit drugs. Senator Hassan will also meet with Mexican officials to build upon existing partnerships with Mexico focused on combating the opioid epidemic and strengthening national security.

For photos from the Senator’s first day at the border in El Paso, Texas click here and here. For further updates on Senator Hassan’s visit, follow along on Twitter.

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