South Bend Times

Congressman Rudy Yakym, who has represented Indiana’s 2nd District in the U.S. Congress since 2022, announced his support for the recently passed “Stop Chinese Fentanyl Act of 2025.” The legislation aims to address the ongoing crisis of fentanyl trafficking into the United States.

“Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45, and as a father of three, I am determined to stop its deadly flow,” Rep. Yakym said. “The House passed the Stop Chinese Fentanyl Act of 2025, empowering the U.S. to sanction Chinese individuals and organizations behind the production and trafficking of synthetic opioids. From securing our border to holding China accountable, we are taking every step to stop the flow of this deadly drug and protect American lives.”

The act broadens sanctions by expanding who can be identified as a “foreign opioid trafficker.” It now includes any Chinese individual or entity involved in producing, manufacturing, distributing, selling, or financing synthetic opioids and precursor chemicals. The definition also covers senior officials or political figures from China who knowingly assist or allow opioid trafficking through deliberate inaction.

Yakym was born in 1984 and currently resides in Granger. He graduated from Indiana University South Bend with an associate degree in 2009 and a bachelor’s degree in 2011.