Accession Number:

AD1182361

Title:

Illicit Fentanyl and Weapons of Mass Destruction: International Controls and Policy Options

Descriptive Note:

[Technical Report, Congressional Report]

Corporate Author:

Library of Congress, Congressional Research SVC

Personal Author(s):

• Kerr, Paul K
• Rosen, Iiana w

Report Date:

2022-03-28

Pagination or Media Count:

4

Abstract:

As synthetic opioid overdose deaths in the United States reach historic levels, some policy stakeholders have sought U.S. action in designating fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction WMD. Such calls have also prompted congressional interest. Although a statutory designation of fentanyl as a WMD does not appear necessary for additional executive branch action to address fentanyl as an illicit drug or chemical weapon, Congress may consider developing legislation to improve upon perceived shortcomings in the U.S. governments approach to addressing fentanyl.

Descriptors:

• congress
• law
• chemical weapons
• weapons of mass destruction
• national security
• united states
• united states government
• governments
• weapons
• executives
• fentanyl
• homeland security
• law enforcement
• medical personnel
• narcotics
• opioids
• public health

Subject Categories:

• Government and Political Science
• Sociology and Law
• Chemical, Biological and Radiological Warfare

Distribution Statement:

[A, Approved For Public Release]