Manley Urges Federal Government to Continue Funding Programs that Fight Heroin Epidemic

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In response to news that President Trump has proposed slashing funding federal programs that help fight the heroin epidemic across the country, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, introduced legislation urging the Illinois Congressional Delegation to protect this funding.

“In 2012, Will County had 53 heroin-related deaths and community leaders from across the area came together to address this deadly epidemic,” Manley said. “During 2013 and 2014 when outreach efforts were the greatest, the number of heroin-related deaths dropped. Last year, when the slightest focus was taken off the heroin epidemic, Will County saw 77 heroin-related deaths. We have seen first-hand how many lives drug prevention programs can save, which is why it is important to protect funding for drug prevention programs from devastating cuts.”

Currently, the Trump Administration is recommending slashing funding the Office of the National Drug Control Policy by 95 percent from $388 million nationally to just $24 million. These cuts would zero out funding for their high-intensity drug trafficking and drug-free communities support programs. Manley introduced House Resolution 384 urging Congress and the President to continue funding these vital programs. Previously, Manley has worked with Democrats and Republicans across the state to address the heroin crisis in Illinois, including serving on the House Heroin Task Force.

“The amount of money that is saved through cutting these federal drug prevention programs is miniscule compared to the entire budget,” Manley said. “However, within our communities the benefits of these programs are astronomical. I will continue my fight on the state level to address the heroin epidemic across Illinois and in Will County. We must also hold Washington politicians accountable to their pledges to address this crisis as well.”

For more information, please contact Manley’s constituent service office at 815-725-2741 or RepManley@gmail.com.