Pfluger-led bill aims to help end online sale of illegal drugs

U.S. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) on Feb. 5 unveiled legislation that would increase penalties for distributing drugs on social media in efforts to deter criminal drug networks, safeguard vulnerable populations, and protect the health and safety of communities.

“Unfortunately, social media platforms have become hot spots for drug trading,” Rep. Pfluger said. “These platforms make dangerous drugs easier than ever before.”

The congressman led five Republican original cosponsors, including U.S. Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE) and Michelle Steel (R-CA), in introducing the Drug-Free Social Media and Digital Communities Act of 2024, H.R. 7239.

If enacted, H.R. 7239 would amend the Controlled Substances Act to increase the penalties associated with certain violations involving the use of an interactive computer service to distribute a controlled substance, according to the text of the bill.

“Over 100,000 young people are killed by drug overdoses every year in this country, and parents often have no idea their child has obtained the substances,” said Rep. Pfluger. “My legislation designates social media platforms as protected zones for children, like schools and parks. 

“This means criminals who are caught selling or distributing drugs on social media platforms will face higher penalties,” he added. “As a parent, I know that nothing is more important than protecting our kids.”

Specifically, H.R. 7239 would amend the Controlled Substances Act by requiring that any person who violates section 401(a)(1) by distributing, dispensing, or possessing with intent to distribute or dispense a controlled substance through the use of an interactive computer service shall be subject to: twice the maximum term of imprisonment authorized by section 401(b); at least twice any term of supervised release authorized by section 401(b) for a first offense; and a fine up to twice that authorized by section 401(b) in addition to any term of imprisonment authorized by this subsection, among other provisions, according to the bill’s text.

The bill has been referred for consideration to both the U.S. House Judiciary Committee and the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee.