Recognizing Early Childhood Trauma Related to Substance Abuse Act of 2018

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5889, which would help reduce childhood trauma by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to provide information and technical assistance to early childhood professionals about the best ways to help treat children struggling with trauma related to substance abuse exposure. Children exposed to adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are more likely to suffer from substance use disorder later in life. We can save money and lives by better supporting these children.

I recently held a listening tour throughout northwest Oregon to better understand how opioids are devastating our communities and to identify and discuss the tools we need to combat this epidemic. I heard from healthcare professionals, families who lost loved ones, individuals in recovery, and community leaders, who all called for greater Federal investment to fight back against opioids. One of the discussions I convened focuses specifically on the needs of children and how we can better support them to succeed both in the classroom and in life.

Busy educators and other early childhood professionals now often find themselves serving as first responders to a growing crisis. Some schools in my home State of Oregon are adopting a trauma-informed care approach to better support affected students.

For instance, Warrenton Grade School, which I recently visited, is a shining example. They are deliberately building a ``culture of care'' that focuses on meeting the emotional needs of children hand-in-hand with their academic growth.

Schools and especially school-based health centers are already facing budget shortages and urgently need additional resources for prevention programs and for screening.

I encourage my colleagues to support the passage of this legislation, but this bill will not be effective if we don't invest in comprehensive supports for young children and their parents.

Traumatic events during childhood often trigger substance abuse later in life. It is vital that we support early learning initiatives to provide children the comprehensive support they need, including programs like Head Start and home visiting programs.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Congressman Brat and Congressman O'Halleran for their work on this legislation. I know they care a lot about this issue.
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Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, once again, I want to thank Congressman Brat and Congressman O'Halleran for their work on this important legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I urge its passage, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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