Sen. Moran Statement on Passage of Bill to Address Heroin, Prescription Painkiller Epidemic

Press Release

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement after bipartisan Senate passage of S. 524, the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2016 (CARA), by a vote of 94-1. CARA will help address the national epidemic of prescription opioid and heroin abuse by expanding prevention efforts, supporting law enforcement, addressing overdoses, and expanding access to treatment.

"Far too many Americans are suffering from addiction and dying of overdoses from heroin and prescription pain medication," Sen. Moran said. "CARA represents a broad plan to combat the devastating effects of the addiction epidemic that damages individuals and communities alike. Many of us know a family member, neighbor or friend who has suffered from addiction. This legislation will aid recovery for those affected and help roll back this growing national crisis."

In recent years, there has been an increase in the abuse of heroin and prescription painkillers throughout the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control, overdoses from heroin, prescription drugs and opioid pain relievers surpassed car accidents as the leading cause of injury-related death in 2014.

S. 524 is supported by medical professionals, addiction recovery experts and groups such as the National Association of Attorneys General, the National District Attorneys Association and the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD) among others.

Source