Adapt Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, in 2016, more than 63,000 people died from drug overdose, more than 30,000 of these from opioids. We also know that 80 percent of heroin users started with prescription opioids. Reducing opioid-related deaths will take a broad, multifaceted effort, and everyone has a role to play, including physicians.

In congressional hearings and community conversations, I constantly hear that enhancing continuing education for prescribers on the risks associated with opioid medication and indications and treatment of addictive behaviors can help reduce dependence and abuse of these drugs.

This week, I was proud to partner with Congresswoman Susan Brooks of Indiana to introduce the bipartisan ADAPT Act. Our bill would help ensure prescribers have continuing medical education on safe prescribing, opioid risks, pain management alternatives, early detection of drug abuse, and treatment options for patients suffering from addiction.

We know more about opioid addiction today than we did 20 years ago. With ongoing research, we will continue to gain new insights and understanding. We need our doctors to be equipped with the latest tools and best practices when treating patients.

I urge my colleagues to join us in support of this effort to equip those on the front lines of the opioid crisis with the latest and best training to help our communities.

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