Bill > HB88

This bill addresses drug trafficking, human trafficking, and fentanyl-related issues in Ohio, introducing several key provisions across different domains. The bill requires schools (from kindergarten through 12th grade and higher education institutions) to develop comprehensive fentanyl abuse prevention and awareness programs that include detailed information about the drug's risks, detection methods, and overdose prevention. Schools will be required to provide age-appropriate instruction covering topics such as fentanyl's lethal dosage, how it is often secretly added to other drugs, its physiological effects, and how to recognize and respond to an overdose. The legislation also modifies criminal penalties related to drug trafficking and possession, particularly for fentanyl-related compounds. It increases potential prison sentences for drug offenses involving fentanyl, with mandatory minimum sentences for major drug offenders. For instance, trafficking or possessing significant quantities of fentanyl can now result in more severe prison terms, especially if the offense occurs near schools or involves juveniles. Additionally, the bill designates August as "Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month" to raise public consciousness about the dangers of the drug. Death certificates will now include a specific notation if fentanyl is determined to be the cause of death, which will help track the drug's impact more accurately. The legislation also introduces new requirements for death certificates to explicitly note fentanyl poisoning when toxicology reports indicate lethal levels of the drug and autopsy results are consistent with an opioid overdose. Furthermore, the bill requires state higher education institutions to develop research-based education programs advising students about fentanyl's dangers, mirroring the K-12 educational requirements.

Justice

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb88