Bilirakis: “The opioid crisis plagues each and every one of our communities”
Washington, D.C. – During a congressional hearing on combatting the nation's opioid crisis, U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) questioned officials from four states about what initiatives are working to help curb the epidemic, and what needs improvement. With Bilirakis' support, Congress authorized $485 million in grants for states and localities to fight opioid abuse, including $27 million for Florida. These grants are part of a national strategy to support substance abuse prevention education, treatment and recovery centers, law enforcement resources, physician training, and more.
"The opioid crisis plagues each and every one of our communities. This national epidemic knows no bounds, impacting people without discrimination. I am committed to the collective effort spanning government, law enforcement, medical professionals, and communities on the ground to prevent addiction and save lives," said Bilirakis.
Last year, an estimated 60,000 Americans died due to drug overdoses, more than all the Americans who died in the Vietnam War. Click HERE to learn more about today's hearing.