By the authority given to me as President, I hereby order the following:
Purpose and Policy: Illicit fentanyl poses a dire threat, akin to a chemical weapon, rather than just a narcotic. A mere two milligrams can be lethal—an amount so small it’s almost invisible. This deadly substance has claimed the lives of countless Americans.
The creation and distribution of fentanyl mainly come from organized criminal groups. This isn’t just a drug issue; it’s a matter of national security. These groups, including foreign terrorist organizations and drug cartels, use profits from fentanyl to fund various criminal activities, from acts of violence to terrorism. The Mexican cartels most responsible for fentanyl trafficking are also locked in violent territorial battles, making the dangers extend far beyond drug overdoses.
The real danger? Illicit fentanyl could be weaponized for large-scale attacks, which adds a layer of complexity and urgency to the situation.
As your President, protecting our nation and its citizens is my top priority. Therefore, I am designating illicit fentanyl and its key precursor chemicals as Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD).
Implementation: Relevant government agencies will take immediate actions to combat this threat. These actions include:
Investigations and Prosecutions: The Attorney General will launch investigations into fentanyl trafficking, using severe legal measures against offenders.
Financial Actions: The Secretaries of State and Treasury will work to seize assets connected to the illegal fentanyl trade.
Resource Allocation: The Secretary of War will evaluate the necessity of moving resources from defense to law enforcement to tackle this issue more effectively.
Military Preparedness: The Secretary of War, with the Secretary of Homeland Security, will update military responses to include the dangers of fentanyl.
Counter-Fentanyl Tools: The Secretary of Homeland Security will identify and dismantle networks involved in fentanyl smuggling using intelligence tools designed for broader threats.
Definitions:
- Illicit fentanyl refers to any fentanyl produced or distributed illegally.
- Core precursor chemicals are essential ingredients used to create illicit fentanyl.
General Provisions: This order does not limit any legal powers of government agencies. It aims to operate within existing laws and ensures that no legal rights are created for individuals or entities against the government.
Fentanyl has become a pressing issue across the United States. Statistics show that more than 70,000 people died from overdoses involving synthetic opioids in 2021 alone, a reflection of the rising dependency and dangerous accessibility of fentanyl. Social media discussions often focus on personal stories of loss, highlighting how this crisis affects families nationwide.
To combat this growing epidemic, awareness and community support are essential. Many local initiatives are working to educate people about the dangers of fentanyl and provide resources for those struggling with addiction. According to recent surveys, 80% of Americans believe that addressing drug addiction is a critical issue that needs more attention and resources.
This comprehensive approach aims not just to tackle the symptoms but also to address the root causes of fentanyl’s surge in America. As we move forward, a united front against this crisis is crucial for the safety and well-being of all citizens.
For more information on fentanyl, visit the CDC’s resource page.
