Hoyer Statement on Co-Sponsoring the CARE Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement after co-sponsoring the Comprehensive Addiction Resources Emergency (CARE) Act, legislation to address to opioid crisis:

"The opioid crisis affects thousands of families throughout Maryland, and Congress must be doing all that it can to combat this worsening epidemic. I'm pleased to support the CARE Act, which would help ensure communities in Maryland have access to the tools they need to address the crisis. We must take a comprehensive approach to addressing this epidemic – including working with law enforcement officials, health care stakeholders, and the business community as well as expanding access to treatment for those suffering from substance abuse. I join in thanking Congressman Elijah Cummings for introducing this important legislation."

The Comprehensive Addiction Resources Emergency (CARE) Act is modeled directly on the successful Ryan White Act, which sought to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic and has provided over half a million HIV/AIDS patients with comprehensive medical and social services. The scale of the opioid crisis warrants a comparable public health response that will ensure adequate and consistent funding for prevention and treatment over the long-term. Under the CARE Act, the state of Maryland and the hardest-hit communities in our state, including Anne Arundel County, would receive significant funding directed toward the local jurisdictions and providers on the front lines of the crisis.