Dr. Joyce Calls for Permanent Ban on Fentanyl Analogs

Congressman John Joyce M.D. (PA-13) called for immediate action to permanently classify fentanyl and its analogs as a Schedule I narcotics, a reflection of the deadly toll they have taken on our nation in recent years. Unless Congress acts, fentanyl analogs will become legal to possess on February 18, 2022.

Congressman Joyce joined Vice Chairman of the Republican Conference, Mike Johnson (LA-04), and the Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), for special order speeches urging the Democrat Leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives to bring legislation to the floor that would permanently classify fentanyl as a Schedule I narcotic.

"Being a part of a community means taking responsibility for one another," said Congressman Joyce. "By not bringing this vote to the floor, liberals in this body are failing in their responsibility to the American people. Our communities can't afford to wait any longer."

Schedule I narcotics are defined as drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Currently, there are only six legislative days remaining before the February 18th deadline to reclassify these substances.

A full transcript of his remarks can be found below.

I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Right now, the clock is ticking. Our communities are being destroyed by the illegal fentanyl that continues to pour across our southern border, and tragically, into the hands of unknowing Americans.

In just over two weeks from now, the emergency class-wide order that makes it illegal to possess this deadly drug will expire, and many forms of fentanyl will become legal on America's streets.

If this happens, police officers will be powerless to stop this drug from wreaking havoc our communities.

We know the consequences of leaving this drug. Sadly, fentanyl overdoses are the leading cause of death among 18-to-45-year old's.

Just half a mile from where we stand now, the fentanyl crisis claimed three more lives last week. In my district alone, over 400 men, women, and children lost their lives to opioid overdoes last year.

Being a part of a community means taking responsibility for one another.

By not bringing this vote to the floor, liberals in this body are failing in their responsibility to the American people.

Our communities cannot afford to wait any longer.

Now is the time to permanently ban this deadly drug.

Now is the time to give law enforcement the tools that they need to keep our neighbors, and our children safe.

Americans are counting on us, now is the time to act.

Thank you.

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