VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) – Senate Bill 79, known as the “Fentanyl Eradication and Removal Act,” passed the Georgia Senate on Feb. 26 with bipartisan support, marking a significant step in the fight against the fentanyl crisis.

The bill has become a pivotal piece of legislation, following in the footsteps of Austin’s Law, which was signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp in April 2024.

Austin’s Law, championed by Gus and Beth Walters of Valdosta, was born out of a tragedy that struck their family. In September 2021, their son, Austin Walters, tragically died after unknowingly purchasing a Xanax pill laced with fentanyl.

Austin loved the outdoors and worked as a salesman for Ag-Pro, where his kind personality shined.

Due to the laws and regulations in Georgia, there was no penalty to hold the drug dealer accountable. In response, the Walters reached out to Senator Russ Goodman, leading to the creation of Austin’s Law. This law aims to hold those responsible for distributing fentanyl-laced drugs accountable, ensuring that families affected by these tragedies receive justice.

Austin’s mother, Beth, said, “Our family sat in those ashes and we lost our child, but you have a decision to make…what are you going to do with your ashes?”

This new legislation focuses on increasing penalties for those involved in the distribution of fentanyl and providing additional resources to law enforcement to remove fentanyl from Georgia’s communities.

“We felt like those people need to get the message and just as important as dealing with the people who get caught with it. We want this to be a strong deterrent to keep someone from getting in the business,” Gus, Austin’s father said.

The Walters’ relentless advocacy has already made a profound impact, not only in their local community of Valdosta, but across the state of Georgia. Their work has led to significant changes in legislation aimed at saving lives and preventing the devastating effects of fentanyl.

The state of Georgia seized over 600 pounds of fentanyl powder last year alone.

“As a father of two teenagers, I would say to our parents and guardians out there this is a conversation you need to have with your kids. Whether they are young, teenagers or young adults. Know that this is a very dangerous drug that is on the streets, and they need to be mindful,” Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones said.

Senate Bill 79 was created to separate offenses specific to fentanyl, allowing harsher penalties for those possessing, selling and distributing the substance and its related substances.

Jones said, “It’s a lot different than marijuana or ecstasy or street cocaine, or whatever it might be…This is a real killer in this fentanyl stuff.”

Lt. Gov. Jones added that the bill should reduce the crime, but there are still ways to attack the trafficking into the state.

“It’s definitely something that is on our radar and has everyone’s attention, and so we are going to be working very diligently with all of our state local and federal partners to attack this issue,” Jones said.

As the Walters continue their mission, their hope is to honor Austin’s memory by making a lasting difference, helping prevent further loss and providing support for families who face the same heartbreak. The launch of Austin’s Promise is just the beginning of their ongoing work to ensure that future generations are safer and more informed about the dangers of fentanyl.

This foundation is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, supporting families affected by fentanyl deaths and working alongside lawmakers to prevent similar tragedies from happening to others.

“Our decision was we are going to make Austin’s legacy something that not only he would be proud of but something Georgians could use to fight this poison,” Beth said.

The Senate Bill 79 has moved to the State House of Representatives.

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