In response to the growing number of heroin and opioid overdoses, especially those linked to fentanyl use, Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C,I-Deerpark) has introduced legislation (A.6470) making the possession, sale, manufacture and trafficking of fentanyl or any of its derivatives to enhance another illegal substance a class E felony. Senator Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) is carrying the bill in the Senate (S.313).

“The heroin and opioid epidemic is sweeping the country, and the Hudson Valley is certainly not immune from its horrors,” Brabenec said. “Dealers and distributors are lacing heroin, which is deadly enough, with fentanyl and its derivatives in order to increase profits and make a stronger, more potent drug. The results have been devastating as our neighbors, friends and family members are dying by the day from these highly addictive drugs. This legislation further cracks down on any illegal and dangerous substance which is made from fentanyl so we stop it from flowing into our community.”

“In combating the opioid epidemic on a daily basis, law enforcement is continually facing changes in opioid mixtures and compounds that evade articulation in law. The proposed legislation will ensure opioid analogues are applicable, prosecutable, and punishable within the New York State Penal Law," said Orange County Sheriff Carl DuBois.

"This bill is a great addition to our commitment to combat the opioid epidemic! I applaud our fellow lawmakers in Albany for their efforts in help saving lives," said Robert Sassi, Orange County Legislator of the 18^th District.