North Carolina Governor Stein Proposes Fentanyl Control Unit to Combat Crisis

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein visited Charlotte to urge state lawmakers to approve funding for a new Fentanyl Control Unit aimed at combating the growing fentanyl crisis. The proposed unit would consist of specialized drug agents and prosecutors focused on dismantling complex drug trafficking operations and preventing the flow of fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics into North Carolina communities. Stein emphasized the initiative's potential to save lives, support families affected by fentanyl, and assist law enforcement in tackling drug rings that cross jurisdictional boundaries. The funding request for this unit is to be included in the 2025-2027 state budget. Stein was joined at the event by law enforcement officials and residents personally impacted by fentanyl, highlighting the urgency of the issue amid rising child deaths linked to the drug. The press conference and push for funding underscore the state's commitment to addressing the opioid epidemic at both the enforcement and community levels.