RECOVERY MONTH

Mr. Speaker, every year people all over the country acknowledge National Recovery Month. National Recovery Month recognizes the many thousands of individuals who have successfully recovered from substance use and abuse. There are millions of people at 12 step classes, Alcoholics Anonymous, and other recovery programs meeting every hour of the day and every day of the week. It reminds me of what Henry David Thoreau said, ‘‘I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man [person] to elevate his life by a conscious endeavor’’. National Recovery Month helps to bring awareness and substantial change in our nation and in our communities. While we are thankful for the success, we must do more. The statistics are stunning. Prince’s death from an opiate overdose in April 2016 made national headlines. His death is one of many thousands that died from overdose of prescribed drugs and illegal substances like heroin. The Center for Disease Control reported that from 2001 to 2014, there was a, 6-fold increase in the total number of heroin deaths. 3.4-fold increase in the total number of cocaine deaths. 42 percent increase in the total number of pain relievers deaths. 2.8-fold increase in the total number of opioid deaths. In 2014, experts said that an astounding 900,000 adults and adolescents ages 12 and older used heroin. It is evident . . . Heroin kills. Cocaine kills. Over the counter opiates and prescribed medications can kill. We have the support to do something about it. A Pew Research Center national survey found that 67 percent of Americans support providing treatment for those who use illegal drugs such as heroin and cocaine. Public opinion in local communities shifted to the extent that voters will support using taxpayer dollars for drug treatment. In Cook County Illinois, 76 percent of the electorate overwhelmingly supported a substance use treatment referendum. Voters support Treatment on Demand. While National Recovery Month means something different for the researcher, for the policy maker, community groups and for people in the neighborhoods. For the individuals in recovery, National Recovery Month is very personal. More than a decade ago, we kicked-off the first recovery walk in Cook County. We joined with communities, government, faith-based groups, providers and especially people in recovery. The 13th Annual Recovery Walk will kick-off on September 24, in Union Park. I urge my colleagues and people all over America to join me in applauding people in recovery for your conscious efforts to remain sober and for being an inspiration for others who sincerely desire to follow in your footsteps. I urge my colleagues to support legislation which will transform the lives of individuals from addicts to contributing people in recovery.