VINELAND — Assemblyman Sam Fiocchi called on the Legislature to take a more active role in combatting the growing drug abuse epidemic in New Jersey. Earlier this week, Fiocchi hosted almost a dozen experts for a roundtable discussion on prescription drug abuse and how to control it.
“It is crystal clear that drugs are a big problem in our communities, and every community across the state,” said Fiocchi, R-Cape May, Atlantic and Cumberland. “The path of abuse is a steep and dangerous one. Often, it starts with alcohol and marijuana, and we have seen dramatic increases in prescription drug abuse and heroin addiction. New Jersey families need help fighting the demons of addiction, and the Legislature should be more active in the battle.”
Fiocchi noted that roundtable participants agreed that drop-boxes for unused prescription drugs were effective. “Often, people have left over drugs in the medicine cabinet. These medications can be strong and addictive, and to prevent abuse, it is critical to get these prescriptions out of the house. The drop-box program is an easy way to properly dispose of potentially dangerous medications.”
Experts at the roundtable also discussed the need for a nationwide prescription monitoring program to track prescriptions written by doctors in multiple states, and concern with the pervasiveness of narcotic pain relievers.
When the Legislature reconvenes in November, Fiocchi plans to speak with Assembly leadership about steps that can be taken to stop the spread of drug addiction in New Jersey neighborhoods.
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