Republican lawmakers in Illinois are introducing legislation to crack down on fentanyl dealers, calling the crisis a public health emergency. The proposed bills would increase penalties for those distributing the deadly drug and officially classify fentanyl overdose deaths as fentanyl poisoning.
“It’s no different than any other poison out there,” said state Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris). “To enter into our communities and kill our children, we should be outraged.”
State Sen. Sally Turner (R-Lincoln) introduced a measure that would make illegal fentanyl sales a Class X felony, carrying up to 40 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000. Turner highlighted the drug’s extreme potency, comparing a two-milligram dose of fentanyl—equivalent to a small sugar packet—to a lethal dose capable of killing 500 people.
McLean County Coroner Kathy Yoder warned that fentanyl is increasingly being mixed with other drugs, including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and even marijuana. “A person should assume that most illicit drugs contain fentanyl,” she cautioned.
While Illinois saw a 9.5% decline in synthetic opioid deaths in 2023, state officials credit increased naloxone distribution, fentanyl test strips, and other harm reduction efforts. However, Rezin insists more action is needed. “We’ve had a decrease in fentanyl deaths, but considering where we were to where we need to be, we’re nowhere near being able to take a victory lap,” she said.
For those struggling with opioid addiction, the Medication Assisted Recovery Now (MAR NOW) service provides 24/7 access to treatment, connecting individuals with immediate support and prescriptions.
