East SBV Times

Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) successfully gained approval for two measures aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis in California. Senate Bill 1442 and Senate Bill 1468, both authored by Senator Ochoa Bogh, seek to have a direct impact on reducing fentanyl-related deaths.

“As a mother, it’s heartbreaking to listen to families describe the tragic deaths of their loved ones. I appreciate the Senate’s efforts to join together and fight against these senseless deaths,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “The opioid crisis doesn’t know political boundaries, and neither should the fight we lead against it as lawmakers. I thank my colleagues for their willingness to stand against this crisis today and support my efforts."

SB 1442 aims to allow the state to produce and distribute fentanyl tests to healthcare providers throughout California. This initiative is intended to enable more providers, especially community health partners, to test for fentanyl use promptly, thereby expanding efforts to reduce overdoses.

SB 1468 focuses on expanding access to detoxification and maintenance treatment for individuals struggling with opioid addiction. The goal is better treatment retention and fewer overdose deaths.

“Fighting the fentanyl crisis is one of the most urgent challenges facing our state today,” said Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta), a former first responder and Vice Chair of the Senate Public Safety Committee. “It's crucial that we take every possible measure to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. These measures begin to provide support and prevention strategies essential for saving lives and mitigating the devastating impact of this drug. Subsequently, we will have to continue creating an overall strategy that will address this issue and ensure that we are measuring participation and outcomes so that we can be assured that we are not just throwing money at ineffective solutions.”

Last year, Senator Seyarto authored SB 19, which established the California Fentanyl Task Force. Signed into law, this measure helps identify tools needed to keep communities safe from fentanyl distribution.

Both measures passed the full Senate today and will now move on to the Assembly.