Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, which includes my bipartisan Communities of Recovery Reauthorization Act with the gentlewoman from Colorado (Ms. Pettersen).

Communities across this country are struggling with the opioid epidemic. More than 60 million Americans are fighting substance abuse disorders. These are our families, friends, and America's sons and daughters. Tragically, death due to overdoses are skyrocketing, with more than 150 citizens dying every day. That is why we must work together to help pass this bill.

There is no doubt that we must do more to stop the illegal flow of fentanyl and other drugs into our country--fentanyl made in China and arriving on U.S. shores daily.

We can do much to help right here at home. By passing this critical legislation, we will enhance support for community organizations that are on the front line, helping people recover from addiction and return to their communities and families through the use of rehabilitation programs.

This is not a battle that anyone should have to fight alone. I urge my colleagues to lead with compassion and vote for this critical bipartisan piece of legislation and start saving lives today.

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