Makes Dark Web Opioid Sales a Crime
Dark Web Interdiction Act of 2025
Would make it a federal crime to sell or deliver opioids through the dark web and create a joint FBI-led task force to shut down illicit marketplaces.
Supporters say
Law enforcement groups would likely say the bill gives them better tools against hidden online drug markets. Public safety advocates may say tougher penalties deter drug sales.
Critics say
Privacy advocates would likely say broader tracking tools could affect ordinary internet users. Some criminal justice groups may argue longer sentences do little to reduce drug deaths.
Why it matters
People who sell opioids through hidden websites could face tougher federal punishment. Police would get more training and tools to track down dark web drug sellers.
What it does
- Makes it a federal crime to deliver, distribute, or dispense controlled substances through the dark web
- Adds a 2-level sentencing increase for dark web drug offenses under federal guidelines
- Creates the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement Task Force inside the FBI
- Has the task force train police and prosecutors and share tools for dark web investigations
Status
Latest action (2025-11-18): Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Financial Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.