Youngstown Times

State Rep. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield) has co-sponsored House Bill 230, aimed at combating drug and human trafficking in Ohio, which recently passed the Ohio House. Cutrona emphasized the importance of the bill in holding accountable those who harm communities with drugs, stating, “This bill will ensure those who are harming members of our communities with drugs be held accountable for their actions.” He further expressed his pride in supporting law enforcement to protect all Ohioans and maintain the state as a safe place to live, work, and enjoy life.

The legislation, introduced in response to the significant rise in drug overdoses, particularly from fentanyl poisoning, includes key provisions such as increasing drug trafficking charges for various substances, expanding the definition of human trafficking, and establishing a mandatory minimum prison term for fentanyl-related deaths. Additionally, the bill designates August as “Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month,” mandates fentanyl dangers education in public schools, and allows law enforcement to conduct oral fluid testing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that since the bill's introduction in June 2023, approximately 3,624 Ohioans and 57,380 Americans have died from fentanyl poisoning. The bill has now advanced to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.