Livingston Today

State Rep. Ann Bollin, R-Brighton Township, has spoken out in favor of a bipartisan plan aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis in Michigan. Bollin emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The statistics clearly show that fentanyl is increasingly killing people in our communities. We just cannot sit back and wait."

Bollin highlighted the devastating impact of fentanyl, which has been attributed to over 100,000 overdose deaths in a 12-month period and is a significant factor in the rising number of accidental overdoses. She noted, “Many of us know someone whose life has been completely shattered by these horrible drugs."

The representative stressed the importance of taking decisive action to combat the fentanyl epidemic, stating, “Prescription drug addiction and fake prescription drugs are taking their toll on Michigan families. We must do whatever we can to stop this trend. It’s time to increase the penalties for fentanyl distribution and put the awfully bad actors away."

Bollin is sponsoring part of the bipartisan plan through House Bills 5124-26, which aim to reclassify crimes related to the production and distribution of dangerous drugs like heroin and fentanyl. The proposed legislation would lead to stricter sentencing recommendations for individuals convicted of these offenses, potentially resulting in tougher prison sentences for illegal drug producers and dealers.

The fate of House Bills 5124-5126 now rests with the House Criminal Justice Committee as they continue to be under consideration.