Senator Gollihare Joins Speaker Hilbert, Families, and Advocates to Introduce “Leo’s Law” Legislation at Fentanyl Awareness Event at the Oklahoma Capitol

OKLAHOMA CITY — State Senator Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville, joined House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, families affected by fentanyl, and community leaders on Friday for the public introduction of “Leo’s Law” at a fentanyl awareness event held on the North Plaza Lawn of the Oklahoma State Capitol.

The event honored Leonardo “Leo” Towe, the three-year-old Oklahoma child who died from fentanyl poisoning during an ongoing custody dispute. The drug screening panels used in the child-welfare process at the time did not include fentanyl — a gap the proposed legislation seeks to close permanently.

“This was a tragedy of biblical proportions,” Gollihare said. “No child in this state should ever be returned to a home where fentanyl exposure is suspected but not tested for. Leo’s Law is designed to eliminate the blind spots that allowed this to happen. When fentanyl is suspected, testing must be mandatory. Anything less is failure.”

Leo’s Law would require DHS to include fentanyl testing in all child-welfare drug screenings where fentanyl use is suspected, including during investigations, removals, and ongoing cases. Individuals undergoing testing would be responsible for the cost unless they qualify for a state or federal voucher program or other qualifying public assistance. A $50 fine assessed in child-endangerment cases involving fentanyl would help offset testing costs and reduce taxpayer burden.

The fentanyl awareness event featured remarks from families who have lost loved ones to fentanyl poisoning, Mrs. Oklahoma, prevention organizations, and community advocates. More than 1,200 white crosses were displayed to represent Oklahomans who have died from fentanyl. A candlelight vigil and memorial balloon release closed the evening.

Gollihare noted that fentanyl remains the leading driver of drug-related deaths nationwide and said Oklahoma’s policies must reflect the scale and speed of the threat.

Speaker Hilbert echoed the senator's concern and emphasized the urgently needed nature of the reform.

"Fentanyl is not just a public health issue, it is a child welfare crisis. Fentanyl is now the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. This legislation ensures our laws match the reality of the threat."

“Leo’s Law cannot bring Leo back,” Gollihare said. “But it can ensure that his death leads to meaningful change — and that families across Oklahoma are protected before tragedy strikes.”

Leo’s Law will be filed ahead of the 2026 legislative session.

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