Some families and advocates say Colorado lawmakers' push to make penalties stronger for possession and distribution of fentanyl won't help those addicted, but could help stop dealers.

John Allison says all his 34-year-old daughter, Tawny Allison, wanted was to feel normal.

"When I talk about Tawny, I like to talk about her fun spirit, her enthusiasm for doing things that are fun, going out with friends," said Allison. "Really, addiction was just a small part of her."

Tawny and John Allison John Allison

Allison was the mother of a five-year-old girl, and she was working actively to beat her addiction to fentanyl. Yet, it was that small part that ended up costing her life when she overdosed and died on June 10, 2025.

"She did everything. She attended meetings," said Allison. "She want

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