Legalize fentanyl testing strips in Wisconsin

SUPPORT

Between 2019 and 2020, reported fatalities from overdoses grew by more than a quarter in Wisconsin — from about 1,200 to 1,530 — according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

We must use all necessary harm reduction strategies if we hope to save as many lives as possible. Fentanyl test strips are one strategy that would allow people to test drugs, and potentially lead to fewer overdose deaths.

The CDC has recognized test strips as a valid harm reduction strategy. So while test strips are considered illegal drug paraphernalia in Wisconsin , legislatures in Colorado, Rhode Island and Maryland are working to legalize fentanyl test strips for everyone.

Other states have removed criminal penalties for use or possession of all drug paraphernalia, like New Mexico, and still others have introduced similar types of legislation. By removing language from paraphernalia laws that make the use, possession, sale, or distribution of materials that test or analyze drugs illegal, fentanyl test strips could be easily distributed and widely used, thereby preventing overdose deaths.


Please sign this statement of support and demand that our state legalize fentanyl testing strips and help safe as many lives as possible.

To: SUPPORT
From: [Your Name]

Today I am signing this statement of support demanding that Wisconsin legalize fentanyl test strips and help safe as many lives as possible.

Overdose deaths involving fentanyl have quadrupled in recent years. People often are unaware of the exact composition of the substances they’re using. This makes evidence-based harm reduction strategies such as fentanyl test strips, safety planning, and access to safe supply more vital than ever. Being aware if fentanyl is present allows people to implement appropriate harm reduction strategies to reduce the risk of an overdose.

We must use all necessary harm reduction strategies if we hope to save as many lives as possible. Fentanyl test strips are one strategy that would allow people to test drugs, and potentially lead to fewer overdose deaths.

I am asking that our state recognizes the need for change in these outdated laws that prohibit the use of fentanyl test strips.