Tina Smith on Drugs

Opioid Stewardship: Big Pharma contributes to prevention

"As pharmaceutical companies make billions of dollars in profits, Minnesotans are dying and our communities are overwhelmed. We have taken some important first steps to address the opioid epidemic in Minnesota, but we cannot expect to make meaningful progress without a significant and sustained investment in prevention, treatment, and recovery.

"Opioid abuse is a public health crisis that demands a coordinated response. That is why The Governor and I strongly support Opioid Stewardship Program legislation. This proposal would hold pharmaceutical companies accountable and fund prevention, treatment, and recovery for opioid addiction. It would finally provide the resources we need to adequately address the problem."