[20220328]IN11902_非法芬太尼和大规模毁灭性武器：国际管制和政策选择.pdf

CRS INSIGHT Prepared for Members and Committees of Congress INSIGHTINSIGHTi i Illicit Fentanyl and Weapons of Mass Destruction: International Controls and Policy Options March 28, 2022 As synthetic opioid overdose deaths in the United States reach historic levels, some policy stakeholders have sought U.S. action in designating fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction (WMD). Such calls have also prompted congressional interest. Although a statutory designation of fentanyl as a WMD does not appear necessary for additional executive branch action to address fentanyl as an illicit drug or chemical weapon, Congress may consider developing legislation to improve upon perceived shortcomings in the U.S. governments approach to addressing fentanyl. Background Various observers draw rhetorical comparisons between fentanyl abuse and WMDs. For example, the congressionally mandated Commission on Combating Synthetic Opioid Trafficking assessed in February 2022 that “in terms of loss of life and damage to the economy, illicit synthetic opioids have the effect of a slow-motion weapon of mass destruction.” Others, including some Members of Congress, note the possible use of fentanyl as a weapon; in