South Michigan News

Niles, MI - Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) is urging his constituents to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 28. The event aims to collect unused prescription drugs and promote proper disposal to prevent misuse and keep the streets safer. Walberg highlighted the success of the previous collection day, where over 633,725 pounds of medications were collected nationwide.

To facilitate the disposal process, residents can find more information about available disposal sites on the Drug Enforcement Administration's website. A list of locations throughout Michigan's 5th District was also provided, including sites in Berrien County, Branch County, Calhoun County, Cass County, St. Joseph County, and Lenawee County.

In addition to his efforts in promoting National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, Congressman Walberg has been actively working to combat the opioid crisis. As a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and the Bipartisan Heroin Task Force, he has been dedicated to addressing the alarming epidemic that affects communities in Michigan and across the nation.

Walberg played a significant role in the passage of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, a landmark bill that aimed to tackle the opioid crisis. He authored multiple bipartisan provisions in this legislation, which saw a decrease in opioid overdoses after its implementation. However, the epidemic has shifted, with traditional overdoses giving way to poisonings caused by substances laced with fentanyl.

To address the evolving challenges, bipartisan legislation was introduced to reauthorize successful programs from the SUPPORT Act and make necessary adjustments to combat the current problems. Walberg proudly cosponsored this legislation, which not only builds upon the successful programs of the past but also provides greater access to over-the-counter opioid reversal medications.

Furthermore, Walberg is a proud cosponsor of the HALT Fentanyl Act, which aims to permanently place fentanyl-related substances in Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act. This move would equip law enforcement with the necessary tools to keep these dangerous substances off the streets. The HALT Fentanyl Act has already passed the House and awaits consideration by the Senate.

For more information about Congressman Walberg's work in combating the opioid epidemic, interested individuals can visit his website.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day serves as a crucial initiative to promote the safe disposal of unused prescription drugs and prevent their misuse. By participating in this event, individuals can contribute to the overall effort in combating the opioid crisis and ensuring the well-being of their communities.

To find out more, go to this link: https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-highlights-national-prescription-drug-take-back-day-0