February Update from Dr. Bains Office

Dear Neighbors,

This month, my office and I are focused on drawing attention to the fight against illegal drugs.

There has been a lot of talk at the Capitol on what we can do to combat fentanyl and other dangerous drugs. I submitted my bill to address xylazine, an animal tranquilizer. Drug dealers are mixing xylazine, also called "tranq," with fentanyl, creating a more deadly and more challenging to treat drug on our streets. AB 3029 will put xylazine in the same category as other dangerous drugs like heroin and cocaine and require that coroners test for xylazine in suspected overdose cases.

Apart from creating more protections against illicit drugs, our 2024 legislative package is complete and proposals to fight illicit drugs on our streets, continue crucial programs for foster youth, and bring a medical school to Kern. I'm excited to work on these crucial issues for Kern County and California. Please visit my website for a complete list of our 2024 legislation.

Doctor's Note

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. So, let's talk about colorectal cancer.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that colon and rectal cancers are the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. An estimated 150,000 people in the US will be diagnosed with the disease this year. Colorectal cancer is also the leading cause of death for men under fifty years of age.

Men and women between 45 and 75 should get regular screenings. Talk to your doctor about the types of tests and screenings, cancer history in your family, and how often you need to be tested.

Colorectal cancer screening can save lives.

Visit the CDC website for more information.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jasmeet Bains
Assemblymember, 35th District