The Fend Off Fentanyl Bill is signed into law

MADISON, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) – A bill meant to help fight the fentanyl crisis. And protect Wisconsin communities is signed into law. The Fend Off Fentanyl Act was sponsored by Senator Tammy Baldwin.

In 2021, there were over 1,400 deaths in Wisconsin related to opioids, plus another 1400 deaths in 2022. Baldwin says the legislation aims to crack down on the chemical suppliers of fentanyl and other related opioids and stop the supply chain.

Baldwin says while the passing of this bill was a significant step in fighting the fentanyl crisis, there’s still more to be done, “We also need to help our first responders who are really on the front lines. we’ve had quite a few accidental exposures where first responders whether it be police officers seizing evidence or EMTs or paramedics being exposed at the scene, we need to make sure they’re safe as they’re responding to this crisis.”

Baldwin says she is currently working to pass legislation to improve border security and stop the flow of fentanyl across the border and protect first responders who may deal with overdoses or be exposed to opioids on the job.

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