Amidst an unrelenting overdose crisis, Congress passed the HALT Fentanyl Act, permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as Schedule I drugs and mandating stringent minimum sentences. Despite bipartisan support, this move sparked profound concerns. Critics argue its “class-wide scheduling” is overly broad and scientifically unsound, potentially criminalizing harmless or beneficial substances without individual assessment. The approach prioritizes expedited criminalization over careful scientific evaluation, potentially stifling vital research. This legislation highlights the ongoing tension between addressing drug crises as public health emergencies versus primarily criminal justice issues, risking an illusion of action over effective, multifaceted solutions.