Rising Teen Fentanyl Deaths Prompt Urgent Action from Lawmakers and Schools

State lawmakers across the United States are grappling with the increasing number of children dying from fentanyl overdoses. Texas enacted Tucker's Law to launch an education campaign about fentanyl dangers in schools, while California is considering Melanie's Law to address opioid overdoses in safety plans. Over 100 laws were enacted during the 2023 legislative sessions to raise awareness, increase penalties for dealers, and prevent overdoses. The opioid crisis has seen a 182% increase in fentanyl-related deaths among teenagers, and the problem shows no signs of abating. Parents and experts are calling for increased access to treatment facilities and healthcare professionals to address the rising rates of mental illness in children, exacerbated by the ease of purchasing drugs online.