Yakima Times

Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) led the Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force in a meeting this week, where they released the task force’s final report. The document outlines strategies to address the ongoing fentanyl crisis.

“We are proud to release a report which outlines our comprehensive work over the last year and a half to help stop the influence of the fentanyl crisis in our community,” stated Rep. Newhouse.

He added, “From individuals who have firsthand experience in substance recovery, law enforcement officers, tribal representatives, and medical professionals, this task force represents all of us who have been impacted by this issue in one way or another. I am proud of the work we have accomplished.”

The task force convened quarterly to identify four main areas for assessment and solution implementation: data, funding, policy, and education at various governmental levels. During these meetings, they analyzed current trends using datasets, mapped out funding resources available for enforcement and prevention programs, discussed existing laws and programs for treatment services, and contributed to an educational campaign aimed at combating the crisis in Central Washington.

The report encapsulates the collective efforts of the task force along with their recommendations and conclusions.

Background information provided highlights that enough fentanyl was seized by U.S. law enforcement last year to potentially kill every American 66 times over. A significant portion—97%—originates from China with 90% entering through U.S. Ports of Entry via vehicles. Furthermore, 17% of methamphetamine tested positive for fentanyl along with 41% of cocaine, 72% of heroin, and 74% of xylazine. Evidence suggests that seven out of ten street-sold fentanyl pills contain potentially lethal doses.

Addressing the multifaceted problem posed by fentanyl requires collaboration from all community sectors both public and private according to officials involved with forming solutions through discussions facilitated by entities like The Central Washington Fentanyl Task Force.