HARRISBURG, PA — Attorney General Dave Sunday has joined 38 Attorneys General in urging Congress to pass the Youth Substance Use Prevention and Awareness Act, a proposed federal bill aimed at combating early drug use among youth through targeted public education and outreach initiatives.
The bipartisan legislation, introduced by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), seeks to amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide consistent federal funding for evidence-based public service announcements (PSAs), youth-led campaigns, and other outreach methods designed to prevent substance use.
“Protecting children is a core function of the Office of Attorney General, and it is crucial that young people receive this positive messaging at a time when they are most impressionable. Without a doubt, the best way to solve a problem or crisis is to prevent it from happening,” said Attorney General Sunday. “As a father, I am well aware of the challenges and influences facing our children. We must do all we can to equip them with the tools they need to make healthy choices.”
The bill emphasizes culturally relevant and locally tailored PSAs, youth-led initiatives such as PSA contests to promote peer-to-peer engagement, and community outreach through diverse media platforms, including TV, radio, and social media. Annual reporting requirements would ensure these efforts are both accountable and effective.
The coalition of Attorneys General highlighted the urgency of the proposed law, citing rising youth drug use and the alarming proliferation of fentanyl and synthetic drugs. Research consistently shows that early drug use heightens the risk of long-term substance use disorders. The coalition wrote in a joint letter to Senate leadership, “This thoughtful and timely legislation represents a critical, evidence-based step toward reducing youth substance use through strategic public education and engagement.”
The bill also underscores the importance of proactive education. Measures include federal grants supporting large-scale outreach efforts and programs aimed at reaching youth during their first exposure to dangerous substances. By using research-based prevention techniques and fostering youth creativity in messaging, the initiatives aim to deliver accessible and relevant information effectively.
The legislation has drawn wide support, with signatories including Attorneys General from 37 states, the District of Columbia, and several U.S. territories. Beyond Attorney General Sunday, notable participants include representatives from California, Illinois, Minnesota, Georgia, Virginia, and West Virginia, among others.
If enacted, the Youth Substance Use Prevention and Awareness Act would serve as a pivotal resource in addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges facing the nation’s youth.
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