South Michigan News

State Representative Sarah Lightner has secured a pivotal win with the approval of landmark legislation by the Michigan House of Representatives, targeting fentanyl trafficking with severe penalties. The legislative package, consisting of House Bills 4255 and 4256, enforces strict mandatory minimum prison sentences for those involved in the manufacturing, distribution, or possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.

Sarah Lightner, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, stated, "Michigan is sending a clear, powerful message to fentanyl dealers and traffickers: your devastating impact on our families and communities will no longer go unanswered.” The proposed penalties aim to equip law enforcement and prosecutors with tools to effectively address the fentanyl crisis.

Highlighting the legislation as a victory for Michigan's families and law enforcement, Lightner remarked, “Fentanyl has destroyed families, overwhelmed first responders, and turned every corner of our state into a potential crime scene. With this legislation, we are putting traffickers on notice: If you push this poison in Michigan, you will face serious time — no deals, no loopholes, no leniency.”

Statistics reveal that fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45. In 2022, Michigan recorded 2,998 overdose deaths, predominantly linked to opioids such as fentanyl.

The package stipulates mandatory minimum sentences based on fentanyl quantities, ranging from 5 to 20 years for less than 50 grams to life for more than 1,000 grams. Additionally, there are enhanced penalties for those selling undisclosed fentanyl-laced substances and for distributing fentanyl to minors, without the possibility of parole or early release.

Lightner emphasized the urgency of the legislation, saying, “We have heard from law enforcement, prosecutors and grieving parents across this state, all saying the same thing — the current penalties are not enough.” The bills have garnered bipartisan support and endorsements from organizations like the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association and county prosecutors.

Lightner articulated the nonpartisan nature of the initiative: “This legislation isn’t about politics. It’s about saving lives. We owe it to every parent who buried a child, to every officer who responded to a preventable death, and to every Michigander who deserves to live free from the threat of fentanyl.”

These bills will now progress to the Senate for further deliberation.