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Representative Joe Lovvorn has introduced House Bill 280, also known as the Price Hornsby Act, an important piece of legislation designed to combat the growing fentanyl crisis affecting Alabama’s youth.
The legislation is named in honor of Price Hornsby, a 17-year-old high school student from Auburn, Alabama, whose life was tragically cut short due to fentanyl poisoning.
“The loss of Price Hornsby has been a devastating blow to our community, and it underscores the urgent need for comprehensive drug education and prevention strategies,” said Rep. Lovvorn. “By introducing the Price Hornsby Act, we aim to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future and ensure that our children are educated about the lethal risks associated with fentanyl.”
The Price Hornsby Act requires Alabama’s public schools to provide research-based instruction on fentanyl prevention and drug poisoning awareness to students in grades six through 12. This initiative aims to arm our young people with the knowledge and tool they need to navigate the dangers of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, which have claimed far too many lives far too soon. Price’s parents, Ray and Lee Hornsby, hope to use their son’s story to save lives.
“We want to encourage the Legislature to consider their children and grandchildren,” said Mr. and Mrs. Hornsby. “Our family completely understands Price played a part in his death, but this substance is deadly. It is truly a parent’s worst nightmare, so we’re hopeful the “Price Hornsby Act” will save lives. We have a responsibility to guard, protect and educate the future generations.”
The introduction of the Price Hornsby Act is indicative of Rep. Lovvorn’s extensive record of public service and dedication to the well-being of Alabama’s citizens. With a background as a first responder, Lovvorn brings a unique perspective to the state legislature, emphasizing the importance of community safety and health education.
If passed, the Price Hornsby Act will take effect in the 2024-2025 school year, providing a new layer of defense in the fight against drug abuse among our youth.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools we have in preventing drug addiction and its devastating effects,” Lovvorn added. “Through the Price Hornsby Act, we honor the memory of those we’ve lost by committing to protect the lives of our future generations.”
