Us Congress House Bill HR1283

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/7/24
• Refer: 6/7/24

Caption

Supporting the designation of June 6, 2024, as National Naloxone Awareness Day.

Impact

If the resolution is adopted, it would serve as a nationwide acknowledgement of National Naloxone Awareness Day, aiming to encourage a larger dialogue around the opioid crisis and the measures to combat it. By supporting this day, the legislation aims to mobilize Federal, State, and local governments alongside organizations to collaborate on increasing naloxone access, public education, and distribution efforts. Furthermore, the resolution calls upon various federal agencies to enhance their support for harm reduction strategies in relation to opioid overdoses, contributing to public health efforts.

Summary

HR1283 is a resolution supporting the designation of June 6, 2024, as National Naloxone Awareness Day. The bill emphasizes the ongoing opioid epidemic in the United States, which has significantly impacted communities and led to a substantial loss of life. According to the resolution, opioid overdoses claimed the lives of over 81,000 individuals in the preceding year alone. The bill underscores the critical role naloxone plays as a medication that can reverse such overdoses and potentially prevent deaths, thus highlighting the importance of increased access and education surrounding naloxone use.

Contention

The major contention surrounding HR1283 lies in the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of naloxone distribution and the broader harm reduction strategies in addressing the opioid epidemic. Proponents argue that raising awareness and increasing naloxone access are crucial steps in combatting the crisis, which is illustrated by alarming statistics regarding overdose deaths. Conversely, opponents may argue that while naloxone is beneficial, it does not address the root causes of addiction or offer long-term solutions. The resolution's passage may stimulate further legislative or community-based initiatives to address these concerns.