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WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger has introduced the Drug-Free Social Media and Digital Communities Act, a legislation aimed at protecting the safety of children and vulnerable populations by increasing penalties for distributing or selling drugs through social media platforms.

Rep. August Pfluger expressed concern over the rise of drug trading on social media platforms, stating, "Unfortunately, social media platforms have become hot spots for drug trading. These platforms make dangerous drugs easier than ever before." He emphasized the importance of designating social media platforms as protected zones for children, similar to schools and parks, to combat the alarming statistics of over 100,000 young people losing their lives to drug overdoses every year.

The drug overdose epidemic in the United States has reached alarming proportions, with synthetic opioids, particularly illicit fentanyl, driving a surge in overdose deaths. Law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), have identified social media platforms as the "superhighway of drugs." The ease with which individuals, especially teenagers, can unlawfully acquire illicit substances through social media poses a significant challenge.

The proposed bill, modeled after the successful policies of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, aims to address this challenge by increasing penalties for distributing or selling drugs through interactive computer services, specifically social media platforms. The legislation aims to achieve the following objectives:

1. Protect Vulnerable Populations: By acknowledging that social media platforms have made illegal drugs more accessible to children, the legislation aims to combat the normalization of drug use.

2. Consistent Legal Approach: The bill aligns with existing laws focused on traditional drug distribution, ensuring a coherent legal framework in the face of evolving challenges.

3. Enhanced Deterrence: The legislation establishes clear legal consequences for selling drugs on social media platforms, serving as a powerful deterrent to illicit activities.

4. Empowered Law Enforcement: The legislation equips law enforcement agencies with the necessary tools to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in online drug sales.

By enhancing penalties for distributing drugs on social media, the Drug-Free Social Media and Digital Communities Act seeks to deter criminal drug networks, safeguard vulnerable populations, and protect the health and safety of communities.

The bill has gained attention and support from various quarters. The Washington Examiner has reported on the proposed legislation, highlighting its potential to address the concerning rise of drug trading on social media platforms.

The Drug-Free Social Media and Digital Communities Act aims to create a safer online environment for children and vulnerable populations, ensuring that social media platforms are no longer facilitators of drug trade.