Washington D.C., Sep 23, 2018 / 03:05 am
The head of the U.S. bishops' human development committee applauded the U.S. Senate for passing a bill responding to the nation's opioid crisis, and encouraged the House of Representatives to pass the legislation as well.
"The Senate passed bill is but a first step in addressing several aspects of the opioid crisis, including support for increases in research, treatment, education, and security and law enforcement," said Bishop Frank Dewane of Venice, Florida, in a Sept. 21 statement.
"As the midterm elections and the end of the year approach, it can be difficult to complete complex legislation during the remaining time. The opioid crisis, however, cannot wait until next year."
Bishop Dewane chairs the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development for the U.S. bishops' conference.