House Committee Passes Bipartisan Castro Amendment to Tackle Youth Drug Abuse and Prevent Fentanyl Deaths

WASHINGTON – Today, the House Foreign Affairs Committee unanimously approved legislation authored by Western Hemisphere Subcommittee Ranking Member Joaquin Castro (TX-20) that would increase collaboration between United States and Mexican law enforcement and public health agencies to support programs and public awareness campaigns that address youth drug use. The legislation, introduced as Amendment 42 to H.R. 3205, would support cross-border efforts to share information and best practices on evidence-based substance abuse and overdose prevention campaigns.

Congressman Castro speaks during today’s House Foreign Affairs markup. To view a video of his remarks on Amendment 42, click here.

“Earlier this year, the Biden administration announced a new global approach to disrupting drug trafficking and cracking down on cartels. As the administration makes progress, Congress needs to do our part to educate Americans about the dangers of fentanyl and prevent our citizens from becoming involved in the cross-border drug trade. I thank Chairman McCaul and Ranking Member Meeks for supporting my amendment, which will address youth drug abuse and help prevent fentanyl deaths,” said Congressman Castro.

Amendment 42 will now move to the full House of Representatives for consideration as part of H.R. 3205. To read the text of the amendment, click here.

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