Ohio lawmakers are intensifying efforts to combat the spread of fentanyl by proposing stricter penalties for drug dealers. State Rep. Phil Plummer, a former Montgomery County sheriff, is sponsoring a bill aimed at increasing prison sentences for those trafficking the deadly drug. (Provided)
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CINCINNATI (WKRC) – Ohio lawmakers are intensifying efforts to combat the spread of fentanyl by proposing stricter penalties for drug dealers.
State Rep. Phil Plummer, a former Montgomery County sheriff, is sponsoring a bill aimed at increasing prison sentences for those trafficking the deadly drug.
“We’ve been fighting this for a long time,” Plummer said. “It’s very important to us that we just increase penalties and stop the flow. Stop the sale of fentanyl in our communities.”
The Ohio Department of Health reported that in 2023, fentanyl was involved in 78% of unintentional drug overdoses in the state. The proposed legislation, which has passed the House, would impose a mandatory minimum of five years in prison for anyone found guilty of causing a fentanyl-related death.
“Now, you’re going to get a mandatory five years on top of your trafficking charge,” Plummer said.
Tom Synan of the Hamilton County Addiction Response Coalition supports the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability.
“You’re putting this drug on the street, you’re damaging people’s lives, you’re benefiting off of them, this is illegal, and you should go to jail,” Synan said.
The bill also mandates that public schools develop lesson plans to educate students on the dangers of fentanyl and increases penalties for dealers operating near schools and churches. Plummer expressed hope for those struggling with addiction.
“I wouldn’t wish addiction on my enemy. I hope all people seek help and get better. But the greedy drug dealer who knows the addiction is so strong to keep selling them this poison that kills them is going to be held accountable,” said Plummer.