U.S. Senator Thom Tillis, R-NC, led a roundtable discussion with local officials and law enforcement in Wilmington to address the opioid crisis, highlighting the impact of fentanyl and the role of China in the drug trade. North Carolina ranks sixth in drug overdose deaths. Participants emphasized the need for bipartisan solutions and the importance of addressing the issue from all angles, including preventing the flow of illicit substances through trade loopholes. The Fentanyl Victims Network of North Carolina founder called for action to close the de minimis bill loophole, which permits dangerous substances to enter the US unchecked in small packages. U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Tammy Baldwin recently introduced the De Minimis Reciprocity Act of 2023 to address this issue. Congressman David Rouzer highlighted the societal problem of overprescription of pills contributing to the opioid epidemic. Tillis stressed the need for concrete action to combat the crisis, translating discussions into legislative measures. The roundtable discussion emphasized the urgent need to address the opioid epidemic comprehensively and from all sides to prevent further loss of life.
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Tillis warns of losing progress at opioid roundtable in Wilmington
