Responding to the prescription drug epidemic has been a major issue on this year’s federal health agenda. In his FY 2017 budget proposal, President Obama proposed $1.1 billion for opioid abuse treatment, of which Washington State would be eligible for up to $20 million over two years, the White House said late last week.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives and Senate have passed their own versions of opioid treatment and prevention legislation, which are currently being reconciled by a conference committee. It is unclear how long this process will take, but lawmakers appear committed to taking action in the next few months.
WSHA remains committed to addressing the opioid epidemic and is supportive of increased federal funding while actively working with local stakeholders to advance key policy and clinical changes. (Ian Corbridge)
