Republican Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick submitted the following op-ed to LevittownNow.com recently:
Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick speaking to a group of students. File photo.
Credit: Tom Sofield/NewtownPANow.com
Drug overdose has surged to become the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. There’s little doubt that the misuse of prescription drugs and illicit substances is a national epidemic with local impact.
Opioids, ranging from prescription pain relievers to heroin, are driving the epidemic and forcing community and elected leaders to find ways to tackle this troubling issue.
Addictions, especially drug addiction, have long been regarded as a healthcare or criminal justice issue, but in today’s society this growing crisis must be dealt with on all levels. As Bucks Co. Assistant District Attorney Matt Weintraub noted, this challenge is not one which law enforcement can simply “arrest its way out of;” the response must be one which reduces the supply and demand, while helping those in the throes of addiction.
School drug education programs, local drug ‘take-back’ events and the awareness raised by community town halls and forums each play a part in addressing this multi-faceted crisis. Likewise, there is room for lawmakers to respond as well.
This past week, Congress debated and passed a package of nearly 20 bills to strengthen our response to opioid abuse and continue the call for action.
The legislation covers a variety of elements, including: utilizing best practices for prevention, treatment, and recovery stages, updating practices for opioid medication, supporting law enforcement’s mission as well as criminal justice reform, and addressing specific groups impacted by opioid abuse, including young children and veterans. A complete breakdown of the legislation, along with other resources, is available at www.fitzpatrick.house.gov/epidemic.
If we cannot arrest our way out of addiction problems, neither can we legislate it away either. The House response, which I have been proud to support, is just one piece of the puzzle.
While the efforts of lawmakers in Washington or Harrisburg, and organizational leaders in our communities are important, there is no substitute for the vital role families must play. It is important that parents and guardians to take the lead in preventing prescription and illicit drug use. Don’t overlook the obvious; be tuned in to the signs and symptoms of abuse or addiction. This problem knows no boundaries.
Together - legislative leaders, local organizations and families – can turn back the rising tide of drug abuse and free our communities and nation from the predictably destructive grip of this epidemic.
