A resolution designating August 21, 2026, as "Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day".

119th Congress Introduced by Chuck Grassley and 1 co-sponsor

Designates August 21, 2026 as Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day to raise national awareness, education, and prevention efforts without creating new laws or funding.

Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.

Summary of S. Res. 846 (Session 119) — Designating August 21, 2026 as “Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day”

Purpose

This resolution designates August 21, 2026, as "Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day" across the United States.

The intent is to raise awareness about fentanyl-related risks, prevention strategies, and the importance of education to reduce fentanyl misuse and overdose deaths.

Key Provisions

Formal designation: The Senate designates a specific day, August 21, 2026, to focus national attention on fentanyl prevention and awareness.

Preamble acknowledgment: The designation is accompanied by a preamble that underscores the public health threat posed by fentanyl and the need for awareness, prevention, and response efforts.

Congressional action: The resolution expresses support and acknowledges the efforts of federal, state, and local authorities, healthcare providers, communities, and families addressing fentanyl-related harm.

Who/What Is Affected

Broad Effect: The designation applies nationally and is symbolic in nature, calling attention to fentanyl prevention and awareness. It does not create new statutory duties, funding, or regulatory requirements.

Stakeholders acknowledged: Government agencies, public health organizations, healthcare providers, educators, law enforcement, community groups, and individuals affected by fentanyl misuse and overdoses are identified as beneficiaries of heightened awareness.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Introduction and action: The resolution was submitted to the Senate on August 7, 2026.

Consideration and passage: It was considered, agreed to without amendment, and passed by unanimous consent on August 7, 2026, with a preamble.

Co-sponsors: Jeanne Shaheen and Chuck Grassley are listed as co-sponsors.

Potential Impact

Symbolic and educational: Helps focus public attention on fentanyl prevention, harm reduction, and education efforts.

Public awareness: May support broader campaigns or collaborations by federal and community organizations during the designated day.

No mandatory actions: The resolution does not authorize funding, impose duties, or create new regulations; its impact is primarily awareness-raising and commemorative.

Notes for Readers

This is a Senate-designated commemorative resolution, not a law or authorization of programs.

The date chosen (August 21, 2026) serves as a focal point for messages, events, and outreach related to fentanyl prevention and awareness.

If you’d like, I can compare this designation to similar commemorative resolutions or place it in the broader context of federal public health awareness initiatives.