Issue Position: Tackling Substance Abuse & the Opiate Crisis

Issue Position

The opioid epidemic is the greatest public health crisis we face. As a community, we must unite to help those struggling with addiction and educate the next generation to prevent drug use. At its core, this epidemic is about our neighbors, our communities, and our families. With children moving in with relatives or foster parents because so many parents struggle with addiction, the epidemic threatens the fabric of our community for generations to come. I will advocate for a comprehensive solution to combat this crisis today and prevent drug abuse going forward.

Education: I will advocate to expand comprehensive drug education in our public schools. Helping today's students understand the dangers of drug use is the best way to prevent addiction in the next generation. Effective education starts with safe schools.

Prevention: Preventing addiction begins with the medical professionals who serve patients in pain. I support comprehensive pain management guidelines to prevent over-prescription and ensure we manage pain responsibly.

Treatment: We cannot arrest, adjudicate, or stigmatize our way through this crisis--that strategy has failed. I support funding to expand access to long-term, comprehensive treatment. By building these programs, we can rebuild communities and help addicts and their families regain control of their lives.

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