The Fentanyl Task Force will identify and work to resolve critical gaps in prevention, treatment and law enforcement efforts.
Gov. Cox said Tuesday fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is one of the most significant drug threats in Utah and across the U.S., because it’s widely available and in high demand at relatively low cost.
Utah saw more than 300 fentanyl-related overdose deaths in 2023, that's compared to 50 in 2019.
The drug accounts for about 50% of all drug overdose deaths in the state.
The Utah Department of Public Safety reports methamphetamines are the second-highest, credited with just under half of Utah’s fatal overdoses.
The task force’s goal will be to address the causes of fentanyl abuse while recommending changes in policy and practice.
