Illicit uses of opioids and stimulants have reached epidemic proportions, with far-reaching, destructive impacts on Florida and the nation. Substance use disorders threaten lives and a dramatic increase has occurred in drug overdose deaths. A surge in fentanyl use is creating added dangers.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is 50 – 100 times more potent than morphine. In addition to the hazards of other opioids, as well as stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamines, deceptive lacing of other drugs with fentanyl is occurring at an alarming rate, exacerbating the problem.

To raise awareness about opioid and stimulant use issues and disorders, and highlight solutions involving the courts, Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Carlos G. Muñiz issued a proclamation establishing September 2022 “as a month of awareness, training, and action regarding opioids, stimulants, and treatment for related substance use disorders.”