Press Releases

ATLANTA, Ga. -- U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers (KY-05) will keynote the sixth annual National Rx Drug Abuse and Heroin Summit, the nation's largest collaborative meeting to address the complex drug abuse epidemic, on April 17-20 at the Westin Peachtree Plaza in Atlanta, Georgia. Rogers will join several congressional colleagues and federal leaders to discuss the next steps to combat the opioid crisis, including Dr. Tom Price, Secretary of the U.S. Health and Human Services Administration; U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, MBA; Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse; U.S. Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA); U.S. Rep. Pat Meehan (R-PA); U.S. Rep. John Larson (D-CT); U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA); Patrick Kennedy, former member of the U.S. House of Representatives; and Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.

"We are in a race against the clock in this life-saving mission to prevent drug abuse, end illicit drug trade and improve access to treatment and recovery options across the country," said Congressman Rogers. "Each year, this summit opens the door to innovative solutions that can be replicated in rural and urban areas alike. It also brings together federal leaders and professionals to spur key policy changes to implement better practices for law enforcement, medical professionals and many other industries."

In 2015, approximately 142 Americans died from a drug overdose every day, totaling more than 52,000 people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse, Congressman Rogers has worked to ensure the best policies and federal legislation are developed to advance the ongoing battle against addiction, such as the recent Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) and the 21st Century Cures Act that became law last year.

"What makes this summit unique is the exchange of information and ideas across industries and public sectors. Whether you are a prescriber, a narcotics law enforcement officer, a community leader or passionate advocate for recovery, this is an opportunity to share challenges and effective solutions," said Congressman Rogers. "The only way to beat back the epidemic that plagues thousands of individuals and families every year, is to maintain this holistic, multi-faceted approach. It has proven to be a successful mission for Operation UNITE in Eastern Kentucky and we plan to continue sharing their efforts on this national stage."

Click here to learn more about the National Rx Drug Abuse and Heroin Summit.

MEDIA NOTE: To obtain credentials for the Rx Summit, contact Danielle Smoot at danielle.smoot@mail.house.gov or 606-679-8346.