The risk of harm or death from overdose is a struggle that impacts families across Illinois, regardless of zip code, race or background. Synthetic opioids, particularly from fentanyl-laced substances, have been the primary driver of this rise in fatal overdoses. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, Illinois experienced 3,261 fatal opioid-related drug overdoses in 2022 and 2,855 in 2023. More telling is that since 2013, fatal overdoses from synthetic opioids have increased by 3,341%.

In January, Illinois State Representative Patrick Windhorst introduced HB 1478, a bill aimed at protecting children from fentanyl exposure. The legislation would establish two new criminal offenses: Fentanyl-related Child Endangerment and Aggravated Fentanyl-related Child Endangerment.

One of the most dangerous and deadly drugs pervading our nation currently is fentanyl. The flow of this powerful drug coming into the United States from Mexico continues to skyrocket, with the Customs and Border Patrol seizing over 19,800 pounds of fentanyl crossing the southern border in FY23, compared to 7,600 pounds in FY22. Fentanyl seizures at ports of entry nationwide quadrupled from 2019-2021, added a report from CBS News. Mexican cartels often use the powerful drug to cheaply and deceptively boost the impact of other, less lethal drugs, such as cocaine or Adderall.