Joint Task Force to Combat Opioid Trafficking Act of 2018

Floor Speech

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Mr. McCAUL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my committee's bill, the Joint Task Force to Combat Opioid Trafficking Act.

Dangerous narcotics and other synthetic opioids are fueling a drug epidemic that is destroying people's lives.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 115 people die every day from an opioid overdose. Just think about that--115 people every day.

They are not just strangers. They are moms and dads, brothers and sisters, friends and neighbors.

Most of us know someone who has struggled with substance abuse or drug addiction.

We cannot allow these numbers to climb. We have to reverse this dangerous trend. We need to act together now.

I am proud to say that the Committee on Homeland Security has been taking action on this issue.

Recently, President Trump signed our INTERDICT Act. This bill provides CBP with additional funds and resources to screen and detect synthetic opioids at the border.

Today, we held a field hearing in Pennsylvania to review ways to strengthen coordination at the local, state, and federal levels in our fight against drugs.

We are taking many positive steps, but we must do more.

We can start by passing this bill that establishes a Joint Task Force at DHS to prohibit narcotics, such as fentanyl, and others from entering the United States.

It also strengthens partnerships between federal agencies and the private sector.

This is a unifying cause. Stopping the flow of drugs into our country will allow more Americans to follow their dreams and build a bright future.

I would like to thank Congressman Langevin and Congressman Peter King for their leadership and hard work on this issue. And I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

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