Hayes Owes Connecticut an Apology

In case you missed it, last week, Rep. Jahana Hayes voted against stopping the trafficking of the highly addictive and dangerous drug, fentanyl. 

Fentanyl has been cited as the leading cause of death among 18 – 45 year olds, and Connecticut is no exception. 

Per the Connecticut Department of Public Health Drug Overdose Monthly Report: 

• From January to the 1st week of December 2022, there were 1,284 confirmed fatal overdoses, with 85.4% (N=1096) of the cases involving fentanyl
• There were 1,531 confirmed deaths for 2021 with an increase of 11.4% compared to the previous year, 2020 (N=1374). Compared to 2019 (N=1202), drug overdose deaths increased 27.7% in 2021. 
• The average percentage of fentanyl- or fentanyl analog-involved deaths was 85% for 2020 and 2021, compared to 82% in 2019. 

Stats are hard to connect to real life, so below are the real life implications of fentanyl in Connecticut:  

• 13-year-old in grave condition after apparent fentanyl OD at Connecticut school
• Three people found dead at Stamford home from suspected fentanyl overdoses, police say
• Danbury woman pleads guilty in fatal fentanyl overdoes of one-year-old grandson

“Addiction is a disease, and it is one preyed upon by drug dealers. By voting against this legislation, Rep. Hayes sided with those drug dealers and against Connecticut families that are struggling.” – NRCC Spokeswoman Savannah Viar