U.S. Representative Harold “Hal” Rogers has expressed his approval following the House’s reauthorization of the SUPPORT Act, a key legislative effort aimed at reducing overdose death rates. Initially signed into law in 2018 by President Trump, the Substance Use Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) Act has been instrumental in expanding treatment and recovery opportunities and supporting work-to-recovery programs.
“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a historic reduction in predicted overdose deaths last year with a decline of nearly 30-percent nationwide. Here in Kentucky, we are leading the way for life-saving efforts with a reduction of over 30-percent last year,” stated Congressman Rogers, who is also known as the Dean of the House and founder of Operation UNITE. He added, “While every preventable death in this epidemic is one too many, this new data gives us hope and proof that we are on the right path with legislation, like the SUPPORT Act.”
Rogers emphasized the need to continue efforts against drug overdoses despite successes, noting that “deadly fentanyl poisoning [is] still on the rise.” He highlighted increased treatment options, prevention education, secured borders to curb illicit drug influxes, and more accessible recovery services as positive outcomes from existing legislation.
The SUPPORT Act was introduced by Congressman Brett Guthrie from Kentucky. It features enhancements such as improved Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs), expanded treatment options for pregnant women and postpartum women with substance use disorder (SUD), support for treatment centers, law enforcement resources, and better access to naloxone.
Additionally, the legislation includes the CAREER Act led by Congressman Andy Barr of Kentucky. This act aims to facilitate workforce reentry for individuals in recovery by providing them with additional skills and education.
Having passed through the House on Wednesday, the bill will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration.
For more information about Congressman Rogers’ initiatives both in Washington and Kentucky, visit halrogers.house.gov or follow him on social media.
