House Bill 3144 established October as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month to help increase awareness of the dangers of fentanyl. DPS is joining Governor Abbott throughout the month of October to bring attention to the dangers of fentanyl and educate all Texans about the fentanyl epidemic.
“The fentanyl epidemic has taken far too many innocent lives, but thanks to the work by brave parents and loved ones, like those here today, we have made Texans aware of this crisis,” said Governor Abbott. “In 2022, more than 2,000 people died from fentanyl in Texas—or more than five a day. It is the No. 1 killer of Americans ages 18-45. And as I noted at our fentanyl summit a few months ago, just one pill kills.”
“Fentanyl is a scourge, with Mexican drug cartels strategically manufacturing and distributing the drug disguised as painkillers, stimulants, anti-anxiety drugs, and even candy. Victims of fentanyl poisoning are unaware that an alleged prescription pill or other substance they bought online or received at a party is laced with the deadly drug. Consequently, my office, in tandem with various state agencies, has sought to raise awareness and educate Texans of the dangers of fentanyl.
“…It is important that every Texan is aware of the fentanyl crisis plaguing our state and nation. Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month will be a life-saving effort to protect our friends, family members, and loved ones from this clandestine killer. All Texans must understand the risks of fentanyl and speak openly about its dangers, as well as the life-saving power of opioid poisoning reversal medication naloxone, such as NARCAN, now available at schools and health care facilities, over the counter, and with multiple levels of law enforcement across our state.
“By coming together in this crisis, we can save more lives and ensure those around us are able to realize their dreams by reminding everyone that just one pill laced with fentanyl can take someone’s life. I encourage Texans of all ages to recognize October as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month and to acknowledge the scourge of this deadly drug.”
Are you interested in scheduling a One Pill Kills fentanyl awareness presentation? Through the Texas Highway Patrol’s Safety Education Service, DPS offers specialized programing to schools, churches, community groups and other organizations — including a presentation tailored to raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and helping keep Texans safe.
The One Pill Kills presentation can be tailored for a variety of audiences and age groups, and it is available free of charge. Click here to learn more and connect with a safety education representative in your area.
