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WHEREAS, fentanyl test strips are a lifesaving tool that enable people to detect the presence of fentanyl in unregulated drugs. Yet, the use and possession of test strips to detect the presence of fentanyl is illegal in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; and,
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WHEREAS, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia have decriminalized the usage of these lifesaving items and PA Attorney General Shapiro has stated his office will not charge anyone for possessing the test strips. Attorney General Shapiro recently released a report showing a stark increase in the presence of fentanyl in Pennsylvania, which is contributing to a rise in overdose deaths; and,
WHEREAS, reported overdose deaths have been steadily increasing in recent years, a tragic loss of life in our communities. In 2021, there were 5,438 reported overdose deaths in Pennsylvania. Among the 720 reported overdose deaths in Allegheny County in 2021, 86% involved fentanyl; and,
WHEREAS, enabling people to use a test strip to detect the presence of fentanyl is a vital step forward in harm reduction that can help save lives throughout the entire commonwealth; and,
WHEREAS, Pennsylvania House Bill No. 1393 of 2021 would amend the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act of 1972 to allow for the personal use of test strips to detect fentanyl; and,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh urges the General Assembly of Pennsylvania to support and swiftly enact House Bill 1393.