Richmond, VA – Today, Jay Jones announced a new plan outlining how he’ll prevent fentanyl addiction, support addiction recovery, and combat the illicit market for the drug.
“Fentanyl continues to devastate communities across the Commonwealth, and we must act with urgency to stop traffickers, expand treatment, prevent addiction before it starts, and reduce deaths by any means possible,” said Jay Jones. “As Attorney General, I will fully harness the power of collaboration with law enforcement, Commonwealth’s Attorneys, and public safety and public health officials, and leverage every tool at my disposal to protect Virginians and ensure those who need help have access to treatment and recovery.”
Jones’ plan takes a comprehensive approach to combating the fentanyl crisis, including strengthening interstate partnerships and giving local law enforcement the tools and training needed to dismantle trafficking and money laundering networks.
As Attorney General, Jones will establish a Drug Trafficking Unit within the Attorney General’s office to improve information sharing, coordination, and investigative support for local law enforcement and Commonwealth’s Attorneys’ Offices. His plan also cracks down on social media and payment platforms enabling drug sales, while continuing to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable and direct settlement funds towards recovery programs.
Jones will coordinate with public health and education leaders to warn communities about counterfeit pills, expand access to naloxone and fentanyl test strips, and grow specialty court programs that pair accountability with treatment to reduce recidivism and save lives.
See the full plan and one-pager at JayJones.com.
