Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I take this time to explain four amendments that I have filed and would like to make pending on S. 524. I understand we are in a position now that we need consent in order to have these amendments pending. I am not going to ask for consent, but I will explain the four amendments in hopes I will have an opportunity to present these amendments and have them considered by the full Senate. I know Leader McConnell wants an open amendment process, and I think all four of these amendments are very much relevant to the underlying bill which is aimed at authorizing the Attorney General to address the national epidemic of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use. The first amendment I wish to talk about is an amendment on which I am joined by Senator Cornyn. It is amendment No. 3421, which would allow grants for 24/7 treatment centers. I am proud to join with my colleague Senator Cornyn on this amendment, which clarifies that grants under section 301 of CARA may be awarded for the establishment and support of treatment centers that operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide immediate access to behavioral health services. The epidemic of opioid abuse and addiction impacts every State in our country. Many of us know individuals and families who have been deeply affected by this tragic crisis. Heroin and opioid drug dependency has more than doubled in Maryland over the last decade.…”