Fentanyl Kills Act
Summary
The "Fentanyl Kills Act" amends Title 18 of the United States Code to address attempted murder and fentanyl trafficking. It broadens the definition of "trafficked fentanyl" to include various activities related to the production, manufacturing, distribution, and financing of fentanyl and related substances. The bill also stipulates that individuals found to have trafficked fentanyl shall be deemed to have attempted to perpetrate murder.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would significantly increase penalties for fentanyl trafficking, potentially deterring such activities. It could also lead to more prosecutions for attempted murder in cases involving fentanyl. This may also strain the justice system due to the increased severity of charges and potential increase in cases.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces fentanyl trafficking and related deaths.
- May deter individuals from engaging in fentanyl-related activities due to increased penalties.
- Could lead to a safer environment by removing fentanyl traffickers from communities.
- May provide a sense of justice for victims of fentanyl-related crimes and their families.
- Could decrease the availability of fentanyl, leading to a reduction in addiction rates.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could lead to overly harsh penalties for some individuals involved in fentanyl trafficking, particularly those with addiction issues.
- May strain the justice system due to an increase in attempted murder prosecutions.
- Could disproportionately affect marginalized communities already targeted by drug laws.
- May not address the root causes of fentanyl addiction and trafficking.
- Potential for increased incarceration rates and associated costs.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. While Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), the expansion of attempted murder charges raises concerns about due process (5th and 14th Amendments) and potential cruel and unusual punishment (8th Amendment). The definition of "trafficked fentanyl" and its connection to attempted murder would need to be carefully scrutinized to ensure it does not violate constitutional rights. The bill also needs to be evaluated to ensure that it does not violate the 10th amendment regarding powers reserved to the states.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).