Courtney Introduces Bill to Expand Emergency Aid for Growing Opioid and Heroin Crisis

Statement

Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) introduced the Opioid and Heroin Epidemic Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, a House companion bill to an identical measure already introduced by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (NH). Later in the day, Courtney will meet with local activists and students from eastern Connecticut to hear about their efforts to combat drug abuse in their communities.

"As communities across the country continue to grapple with rising prescription drug and heroin abuse, we need to provide them with additional resources to improve upon the coordination of public health outreach, treatment and recovery programs, and law enforcement efforts," said Courtney. "I am pleased to be joining Senator Shaheen, who has been a national leader on this issue, in her efforts to provide additional emergency funding to help communities across the country turn back the rising tide of drug abuse and addiction. I was encouraged to see yesterday that President Obama's budget proposal for the coming year includes $1.1 billion in new funding to address prescription opioid and heroin abuse. It is reassuring that the White House is making this issue a top funding priority for next year, however, it is important to note that Senator Shaheen and my legislation, if passed, would make emergency funds available immediately."

Source