Contact: Rep. John Nygren, (888)534-0089
Madison–State Representative John Nygren (R-Marinette), author of the Heroin, Opioid Prevention and Education (HOPE) Agenda and Co-chair of the Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse, released the following statement after participating in a conference at the White House regarding best practices in combating the opioid epidemic:
“I had the honor of being invited to participate in a conference at the White House regarding the best practices in combating the opioid epidemic with other state and local leaders from around the country. Today at the conference, I was able to share all that we have done in Wisconsin as a part of the HOPE Agenda, as well as learn from other local and state leaders from around the nation.”
Since the conception of the HOPE Agenda in 2013, Rep. Nygren has been the author of 30 bipartisan bills aimed at reducing our state’s opioid epidemic. Partnering with healthcare professionals, law enforcement, the recovery community, and other stakeholders, the HOPE Agenda has struck the right balance between expanding treatment and recovery access to those who need it, and punishing those who facilitate the flow of drugs into our communities.
Earlier this week, the Department of Health Services announced the state has been awarded a two-year federal grant totaling nearly $24 million to support our ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic.
“This announcement illustrates the continued dedication and support states are receiving from the Trump Administration. In order to end addiction, we need an all hands on deck approach and further collaboration between states and the federal government is crucial. These investments will help further implement the actions the Governor’s Task Force on Opioid Abuse have recommended as a part of the HOPE Agenda.
“Because of the great strides we’ve made with the HOPE Agenda, Wisconsin is well ahead of the curve in addressing our country’s prescription opioid and heroin problem.”
Data released by the Wisconsin Prescription Drug Monitoring Program is very promising. Wisconsin has seen a 30% decrease in opioid prescriptions as well as a 47% decrease in ‘doctor shopping’. These statistics represent closing the door to future addiction, and saving more lives.
“While we still have friends and family struggling with addiction, we can’t take a victory lap, but it is important to recognize how far we have come. I would like to thank President Trump for his continued support and passion for this important issue!”
