PA House Addresses Opioid Epidemic, Santarsiero Missing

Statement

Brian Fitzpatrick, former FBI special agent and federal prosecutor, released the following statement Wednesday regarding the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passage of two bills addressing the Commonwealth's opioid epidemic -- and State Rep. Steve Santarsiero's disappointing choice to skip the votes:

"I applaud the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives for coming together -- Republicans and Democrats -- to unanimously pass a pair of bills aimed at addressing our community's opioid epidemic. These bills highlight the multiple fronts in the fight against addiction -- from increasing education, including for medical professionals, to limiting the over-prescription of medication which can lead to abuse. In Congress, I will continue this mission and work with local, state and federal stakeholders to win this battle.

However, I find it beyond disappointing that Rep. Steve Santarsiero chose to skip this critical vote. While not surprising based on his recent attendance while running for a political promotion, it remains a disservice to those who still expect him to serve as their voice and vote in Harrisburg."

Brian Fitzpatrick is a certified EMT and, as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, prosecuted drug crimes. He has made combatting our region's opioid epidemic a focal point of his campaign from Congress including advocating for increased drug education, funding for recovery efforts and stiffer penalties for drug dealers. Fitzpatrick has also highlighted the nexus between addiction and community planning by weighing in on recovery homes in Bucks Co.

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