Selina Bliss, a state representative in the Arizona House, said that approximately 65% of the nation’s fentanyl continues to enter through Arizona. She urged lawmakers to consider new legislation addressing addiction treatment. Bliss made these comments on X.
“I appreciated the legislative briefing from the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys on the fentanyl crisis,” said Selina Sieh Bliss, State Representative from Arizona. “It appears 65% of the nation’s fentanyl is still coming through Arizona’s borders. In addition to supporting law enforcement and border control, it is time to look at legislation to address best practices in addiction treatment.”
Arizona remains a frontline state in the U.S. fentanyl crisis due to its proximity to major trafficking routes. Lawmakers and prosecutors are collaborating on solutions aimed at strengthening enforcement while expanding treatment access.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, more than 27,000 pounds of fentanyl were seized nationwide in fiscal year 2024, with Arizona and California accounting for the majority of border interceptions. This reflects a sharp rise from previous years.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded over 70,000 deaths linked to synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, in 2023. Public health officials cite illicit fentanyl as the single most lethal drug threat in the nation.
Bliss serves Legislative District 1 in the Arizona House of Representatives. A registered nurse and educator, she focuses on legislation related to public safety, veterans, and community health issues.