WASAVP supports medicine return legislation

As the Secure Medicine Take-back Bill (SSB 5234) awaits a vote in the Rules Committee -- it needs to be passed by the Senate before the cut-off deadline of March 7 to keep moving forward this session -- it has received a good deal of media coverage.  WASAVP President Jim Cooper recently wrote an opinion piece that appeared in The Olympian. 

Medicine return legislation needs support

Senate Bill 5234 currently is being considered in the Washington State Senate -- it would create a secure medicine return program in our state. This bill could have a significant impact on youth substance abuse prevention.  It is currently being considered by the Senate Rules Committee.

Nationwide, we've heard reports about youth abuse of prescription medications on the rise. Prevention science confirms that reducing access to harmful substances is a proven method for preventing youth substance abuse. For the legislation to move forward, the Senate Rules Committee will need to vote on it by March 7. Pharmaceutical companies who oppose the bill are working hard to ensure that the bill does not get a full Senate vote.

For more information about this issue, visit the Take Back Your Meds campaign website.