9th District Congressman Doug Collins and Democratic Congressman Ted Deutch of Florida have introduced a bill to fight the opioid epidemic on multiple levels. Collins says the Substance Abuse Prevention Act woul dhelp Georgians break free from addiciton and lessen the strain on the justice system.
“With the introduction of this bill what we’re emphasizing is the Office of Drug Policy and a continuation of the reauthorization programs that currently work,” according to Collins.
He says the measure would bring practical solutions to the problem.
“I know here in Northeast Georgia, drug courts and accountability courts are things that help change the condition for many who are in need of solving their opioid addictions, but also becoming productive citizens. Also highlighting the issues in the bill that help providers understand better how to treat and use opioids effectively.”
The bill would include a Drug-free communities program, high-intensity drug trafficking area task forces, increase public awareness campaigns, and improve substance abuse treatment, protect families with abuse challenges and reauthorize the Justice Department funding for drug courts, among other plans.
The measure would also require a plan for educating and training medical experts in best practices for prescribing controlled substances. The Substance Abuse Prevention Act has support from the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, the Addiction Policy Forum, the National District Attorneys Association, the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids, and similar organizations.
