Golden State Today

In October, California's efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis led to significant drug seizures. The state's fentanyl task force collaborated with law enforcement partners to confiscate over 1.7 million fentanyl pills, valued at nearly $12 million on the street. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted these efforts as part of a broader strategy to address the opioid crisis.

Governor Newsom announced that in October alone, the California National Guard's Counterdrug Task Force supported the seizure of 1,541 pounds of illicit fentanyl. "California continues the intensive work of keeping fentanyl out of our communities," said Newsom, noting a 204% increase in seizures compared to the previous month.

Earlier this year, in June, Governor Newsom expanded the deployment of Cal Guard’s Counterdrug Task Force from 155 to nearly 400 service members. This move aimed to enhance drug interdiction at ports of entry where most fentanyl is smuggled by U.S. citizens.

The state has invested $60 million over four years into expanding Cal Guard’s role in preventing drug trafficking by transnational criminal organizations. These efforts are part of a comprehensive approach that includes cracking down on fentanyl distribution across California and supporting local law enforcement initiatives.

As part of tackling the opioid crisis more broadly, California launched opioids.ca.gov for prevention and treatment resources and initiated public education campaigns like Facts Fight Fentanyl. The state also introduced CalRx®-branded naloxone nasal spray available over-the-counter as part of its Naloxone Distribution Project.

Additionally, Governor Newsom discussed international cooperation on counternarcotics with Chinese President Xi Jinping, aligning with President Biden’s bilateral agreement with China.