South Michigan News

State Representative Sarah Lightner has introduced new legislation aimed at addressing fentanyl trafficking in Michigan. The proposed bills, House Bills 4255-4256, seek to establish stricter penalties for those involved in the manufacture and distribution of fentanyl and its derivatives.

Rep. Lightner emphasized the need for harsher consequences for dealers whose actions result in fatalities. "Our current laws hardly hold fentanyl dealers accountable — even when the poison they peddle kills someone," she stated. She further noted that these criminals often face minimal repercussions while families suffer losses, asserting, "We need real consequences for those pushing this deadly drug into our communities."

The proposed legislation includes mandatory minimum sentences ranging from five years to life imprisonment based on the quantity of drugs involved. Additionally, individuals over 18 convicted of distributing fentanyl to minors would face a minimum sentence of seven years.

The bills also address cases where sellers fail to disclose the presence of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil in their products, proposing a felony charge with a ten-year prison sentence that must be served consecutively with any other related sentences.

Mike Hirst, founder of Andy’s Angels in Jackson County, supported the initiative during testimony in Lansing. Reflecting on his personal loss due to drug-related issues, Hirst described drug dealers as indifferent to human life: “They could care less whether you live or die.”

Calhoun County Prosecutor David Gilbert highlighted the prevalence of fentanyl in today's drug market and its role in overdose deaths. "About 75% of the overdose deaths in our county – and probably the state – have fentanyl in the drugs being used," he said.

Julie Risner shared her experience of losing her son Christopher to an overdose involving heroin laced with fentanyl. She pointed out that despite previous arrests for narcotics dealing, Christopher's supplier had been released after short periods.

House Bills 4255-4256 are currently under review by the House Judiciary Committee chaired by Rep. Lightner.