By: Hannah Poling
The Ohio House passed a bill Wednesday, with bipartisan support, that would decriminalize fentanyl testing strips, pushing forward with a proposal that supporters claim will help prevent fatal overdoses and save lives.
In the state of Ohio, fentanyl drug testing strips are considered drug paraphernalia and it’s illegal for someone to be in possession of them.
House Bill (HB) 456 sponsored by state Representative Kristin Boggs (D-Columbus) and co-sponsored by 26 supporting bipartisan lawmakers, would remove the classification of illegal drug paraphernalia under the measure.
Free fentanyl drug testing strips which individuals use to detect the powerful synthetic opioid often found laced in other drugs, have become increasingly common in many cities across the state. Health departments and organizations all across the state have been providing these resources.
Even though city officials promote the strips those in possession of them can get in trouble.
If an individual possesses or uses the strips, they could be charged with a fourth-degree misdemeanor, according to current state law. That could be up to thirty days in jail and a fine of up to $250.
“HB 456 would help create widespread access to fentanyl drug testing strips. This is a critical step forward to prevent more Ohioans from dying from fentanyl drug overdoses,” Boggs said.
According to state data, fentanyl, the highly addictive synthetic opioid, is the leading cause of drug-related deaths in Ohio.
https://tennesseestar.com/2022/12/02/ohio-house-passes-bill-to-decriminalize-fentanyl-test-strips/