New Bill Would Define Drug Paraphernalia To Exclude Fentanyl Test Strips

Fentanyl overdose is a rising downside in Oklahoma, and one lawmaker is trying to carry the numbers down with a brand new invoice legalizing Fentanyl testing strips.

Experts say Fentanyl testing strips will help forestall folks from overdosing.

“Folks are taking just a little bit and they are going into overdose immediately,” said Samantha Jenkins with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. “So, if we don’t want to see people die of drug overdoses, this is something that we need to engage in.”

Fentanyl testing strips can be utilized to see if there are traces of Fentanyl in different medicine.

But as of proper now, lawmakers say it may argue these assessments are unlawful.

“If you were to take a handful of lawyers right now, half would say that yes, it is drug paraphenalia, therefore it’s illegal, and then half would say no, it’s not,” said Representative Mickey Dollens. (D-Oklahoma City). “But the bottom line is (that) it’s not clearly stated in state statute.”

Oklahoma House Bill 1987, if passed, would define what is considered drug paraphernalia and state that Fentanyl test strips are not part of that group.

Dollens says access to Fentanyl testing can help people stay alive so they have the chance to recover.

“Fentanyl testing strips is a chunk of the puzzle towards serving to addicts get on the highway to restoration,” mentioned Dollens. “And an important factor, whereas they’re on that highway to restoration, is that they keep alive.”

Experts say this bill could help groups wanting to distribute testing strips do so without worrying about breaking the law.

“That is simply essential in order that people who find themselves making an attempt to remain wholesome and have interaction in hurt discount are ready to take action with out worrying that there is going to be a repercussion,” said Jenkins.

The bill will now go to the House floor for a vote, and if it passes there, it will head to the Senate.

Dollens says the bill has an emergency clause, which means if it’s passed, it could go into effect in as little as three months.

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