Sec. 2. Findings
122 words·~1 min read·
/bill/119/s/3080/is/section-2·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
Congress makes the following findings: 2-Benzylbenzimidazole opioids (also known as nitazenes) are a class of synthetic opioids first synthesized in the 1950s that exhibit significant potency at the mu-opioid receptor, with some substances exceeding the potency of fentanyl. Unlike opium, 2-benzylbenzimidazole opioids and other synthetic opioids can be produced anywhere in the world using precursor chemicals that are often uncontrolled and widely available. Chemical manufacturing companies in the People’s Republic of China can synthesize 2-benzylbenzimidazole opioid precursors at a scale using a comparatively easy 3- or 4-step process.
The Drug Enforcement Administration has warned that Mexican cartels could use their existing relations with suppliers based in the People’s Republic of China to obtain 2-benzylbenzimidazole opioids and funnel them into the United States.