WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Shelly Moore-Capito (R-WV) have introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing substance use disorder and the recovery efforts needed to overcome this disease. The challenges posed by substance use disorder have continued to wreak havoc across Maine and the nation. This has been exacerbated in recent years due to limited access to treatment programs and increased isolation.

However, there have been positive trends with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that drug overdose deaths nationwide decreased by three percent in 2023 — the first annual decrease since 2018. During that same time period, Maine, saw overdose deaths decrease by nearly 16 percent. This resolution shows a continued commitment to build upon these efforts and further bring down the rates of overdose deaths and substance use disorder.

“Maine is one big, spread-out community and we have an obligation to one another to ensure we not only survive, but thrive,” said Senator King. “Tragically, we are losing too many of our loved ones to substance use disorder, leaving families scarred by their absence. The good news is we have started to see declines in overdose deaths, but we cannot let up on our efforts to provide quality care and support. This resolution recognizes our commitment to those struggling with substance use disorder and is another step forward in working together to save lives in Maine and across the country.”

“I am proud to join my colleagues again in designating September as National Recovery Month,” said Senator Capito. “While the number of fatal overdoses thankfully has begun to decline in West Virginia and across the nation, far too many individuals are still being impacted by substance abuse. My hope is that by recognizing those who are in recovery — or on the road to recovery — from drug and alcohol addiction, we are providing a path forward those still living with addiction. In addition, the resolution rightfully highlights the vital role family members, friends, and communities play in this process.”

Senator King has made combating the opioid crisis one of his highest priorities in Washington. In the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, King secured significant investments to improve drug shipment interdiction, an area where he has long called for more resources. In the Fiscal Year 2022 budget, he secured new federal investments in our nation’s response to the ongoing opioid and substance use disorder (SUD) epidemic. He also secured nearly $1 million for SUD treatment for Maine through the American Rescue Plan. Senator King has also previously introduced the LifeBOAT Act, legislation that would help combat the opioid epidemic.

The complete text of the resolution can be read here.

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