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Legislation to improve and reform the treatment for opioid addiction passed the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday by a unanimous voice vote. Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), the lead Democratic sponsor of the legislation worked with Indiana Congressman Larry Buschon (R-IN) to craft and shepherd the bill through the House Energy and Commerce Committee. The Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Expansion and Modernization Act (H.R. 4981), will now be conferenced with the Senate and is expected to become law with a signature from President Barack Obama.

“Addiction is something that touches all of our lives at some point, whether personally or through family and friends, and it's time to rethink our approach to providing assistance to those struggling through some of the most challenging times imaginable. This legislation will expand opioid treatment capacity, while ensuring the highest quality care available. Those in the recovery community are truly heroes. Bearing witness to the success stories of those who battle substance abuse -- as well as their closest friends and family that stand alongside them in their fight -- drives me to push for policies that will expand the opportunity to recover to everyone,” said Tonko.

H.R. 4981 amends the Controlled Substances Act to expand access to medication-assisted opioid addiction treatment, ensures patients have access to a wider range of comprehensive, evidence-based treatment options, and helps minimize the potential for drug diversion. The legislation is the product of months of stakeholder engagement, expert input and bipartisan negotiation and is supported by the American Medical Association, the Harm Reduction Coalition, the Drug Policy Alliance, the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the National Council on Behavioral Health, among others.

More information on H.R. 4981 can be found in the attached one-pager.

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