My nephew was born addicted to fentanyl, and it was a heartbreaking ordeal that my family never imagined we would endure. Seeing him struggle in NICU for weeks due to his fentanyl exposure in the womb was a profound wake-up call. No child should start their life in pain because of substance exposure before birth, and no family should have to witness such a difficult beginning for their newborn without recourse.

Prenatal drug exposure is a severe and pervasive issue that affects thousands of children and families across Kentucky every year. According to the Kentucky Department for Public Health, there has been a notable rise in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) cases, with numbers climbing from nearly 5 cases per 1,000 live births in 2000 to over 20 cases per 1,000 live births in recent years. This alarming trend demands urgent action and accountability.

We are advocating for Kentucky legislators to adopt criminal accountability measures for prenatal exposure to harmful substances like fentanyl. Such measures should include holding individuals accountable who knowingly expose innocent, unborn children to drugs. These actions should be paired with comprehensive support systems, including addiction treatment and support for expectant mothers, to ensure they have the resources and guidance they need to overcome substance abuse. I personally think neglect charges aren't enough, we should push for serious criminal charges in these instances.

Kentucky has the opportunity to set a precedence by implementing laws that protect unborn children from substance abuse while supporting their mothers. Other states have led the way with similar laws tailored to address the complex dynamics of addiction, holding the abusers accountable while encouraging prevention and support.

We urge lawmakers to recognize the gravity of this situation and to act decisively. By enforcing such laws, we can substantially reduce NAS rates and nurture a healthier future for our children and communities. It's time to put the safety and wellbeing of our future generations at the forefront of our legislative priorities.

Please join us in calling on the Kentucky legislature to enact criminal accountability for prenatal substance exposure. Families across our state are counting on us to speak up and take meaningful action. Sign this petition and help us protect the children of Kentucky.

I would love to get this passed and call it "Cashtons Law." Although it will not help my family now, I am hopefully it will help other families who deal with these situations.