Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) actively participated in a recent hearing of the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee focused on addressing the growing fentanyl crisis. The hearing, titled “Stopping the Flow of Fentanyl: Public Awareness and Legislative Solutions,” featured witnesses including artist and philanthropist Jason “Jelly Roll” DeFord, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police Patrick Yoes, and retired Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Special Operations Division at the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Christopher J. Urben.
Senator Britt commenced her remarks by emphasizing the urgent need to confront the national security, humanitarian, and economic crisis at the United States’ southern border, contributing to the influx of fentanyl into communities nationwide. She outlined over 15 pieces of legislation she has sponsored or cosponsored as tangible policy solutions to address the border crisis.
In her line of questioning, Senator Britt highlighted the devastating impact of fentanyl, with over 112,000 overdoses reported in 2023. She underlined the real and human cost of this crisis on families across society, emphasizing that the numbers represent individual stories of pain, tragedy, and loss.
One of the witnesses, Jason “Jelly Roll” DeFord, a Grammy Award nominee and philanthropist, expressed gratitude for Senator Britt’s remarks. Senator Britt also shed light on the evolving landscape of fentanyl trafficking, including technological advancements by transnational cartels and the Chinese Communist Party.
During her remarks, Senator Britt provided a platform for Mr. DeFord to share his personal story, acknowledging the importance of highlighting both peaks and valleys in life. She commended his openness about his relationship with Jesus Christ and expressed appreciation for his willingness to share his story publicly.
Senator Britt concluded her remarks by addressing the urgent need for action against fentanyl, noting that as a mother, she is ready for immediate measures to prevent further tragedies. She solicited perspectives from the witnesses on addressing technological gaps in combating fentanyl trafficking.
The witnesses, including Mr. DeFord, highlighted the importance of giving federal law enforcement the ability to wiretap encrypted applications, acquiring extra tools to map organizations involved in trafficking, and enhancing financial sanctions against transnational criminal organizations.
