COLUMBUS—This week, Senators Terry Johnson, R-McDermott, and Frank Hoagland, R-Adena, introduced SB 193 that would allow prosecutors to bring terrorism-related charges to large scale drug traffickers in Ohio.

Large scale traffickers could face life in prison.

“Clearly the opioid epidemic has terrorized our neighborhoods and communities throughout southern Ohio,” said Johnson. “This provides another tool for prosecutors to use against traffickers who have transitioned to even deadlier fentanyl-laced drugs.”

Both senators are veterans who served in the War on Terror.

Hoagland served as a SEAL in the United States Navy, and was also part of drug interdiction missions in South America targeting drug traffickers.

“People understand the dangers of addiction, but there is an added danger that comes with these drugs,” said Hoagland. “This is not just a neighborhood threat, this is a threat to our national security, and it needs to be addressed with upgraded criminal codes.”

SB 193 also creates a state registry for pill presses that would be maintained under the Department of Public Safety.

“As a doctor, I know how critical it is that medicine people rely on, not be mistaken for illegal and deadly drugs crafted into pills shaped like normal medications,” said Johnson. “The press registry will be an additional layer of security for our communities.”