Assemblyman Joe DeStefano joined a bipartisan group of legislators at the New York State Capitol to introduce Assembly Bill A.8540, known as the Fentanyl Fathers and Mothers Act. This legislation, led by Assemblyman Robert Smullen, aims to implement a comprehensive Fentanyl Education, Awareness, and Recognition Program in all public, private, and charter schools in New York for students in grades six through 12.
DeStefano highlighted the importance of this proposal as a necessary measure against the increasing number of youth overdose deaths related to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. “We are losing young lives every day to counterfeit pills and deadly synthetic drugs like fentanyl,” he stated. “This is not just a drug crisis; it is a public health emergency.”
The proposed act would expand traditional drug education by including information on how fentanyl is disguised and distributed, recognizing an overdose, and seeking help. It also mandates naloxone distribution in schools and requires annual evaluations to ensure program effectiveness.
Emphasizing prevention beyond education, DeStefano pointed out the need to address root causes leading to substance use among youths. He remarked that many families are mourning children lost to substances they were unaware they were taking. “We need schools to also teach emotional coping skills, mental wellness, and where to go for help,” he said.
DeStefano called for prompt action on the bill while urging support from parents, educators, and community leaders. “This bill is about saving lives,” he asserted. “It’s about protecting our children and giving them a chance at a future.”
