Edwards Hosts Roundtable On Drug Overdose In Maryland

Press Release

Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (MD-4) hosted a roundtable highlighting the impact heroin and other opioid-related overdoses are having on communities in the 4th Congressional District and throughout the state of Maryland. Representatives from law enforcement, higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and federal, state, and local government participated in the discussion.

"Today was incredibly insightful as stakeholders shared their experiences from fighting this epidemic on the ground every day," Edwards said. "Hearing the challenges and actions being taken by law enforcement, educators, and public health officials broadened everyone's understanding of the scope of this issue. We know naloxone is effective in reversing opioid-related overdose, and it is important that we increase its availability. But it is one piece of the puzzle. We must also work together to educate the public that addiction is a disease, ensure necessary resources are available, gather more comprehensive data to identify trends and locations, and reduce the cost of naloxone. With such a coordinated effort, I am confident that someday overdoses can be eliminated from our communities. I thank everyone for their participation today, and look forward to continue working together in this effort."

Source