Family Support Services for Addiction Act of 2020

Floor Speech

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Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is really my honor to be here today in support with Congressman Trone, and I thank him for his partnership and his leadership on this very important issue.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer support for our bill, H.R. 5572, the Family Support Services for Addiction Act, which provides a family and community-based approach to addiction treatment that works to address the deep-seated effects of the addiction crisis on so many families.

The opioid epidemic is ravaging my district and many States across America, and all of Pennsylvania is by no means an exception. In 2017, Pennsylvania experienced 5,456 drug-related overdose deaths. It has impacted virtually every family throughout the Commonwealth.

Far too many families struggling with substance use disorder feel like they have nowhere to turn for the resources and very important information.

This bill would establish a grant program for family community organizations that provide support for families of individuals struggling with substance use disorder. These services can include information and referral sources, support groups, system navigation to assist the family in finding resources, parent training and education, specialized crisis support, and, really, much, much more, again, where they currently don't know where to turn.

As a member of the Freshman Working Group on Addiction, I am very proud to be the Republican lead on a bill that takes critical steps to help families feel empowered and equipped to support their loved ones struggling with substance use disorder.

I again want to very, very sincerely congratulate and thank Congressman David Trone for his hard work, his dedication, and his great care in helping those suffering from drug addiction.

I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and I urge its swift passage.

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