Kustoff Introduces Bill to Reduce Opioid Use Among Youth During COVID-19

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08), joined Rep. Ted Budd and Rep. Harley Rouda in introducing The Drug-Free Communities Pandemic Relief Act. This bill will help reduce substance and opioid use among our youth by allowing the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) the authority to waive the match requirements of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program if the grantee is unable to meet these requirements due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

"In West Tennessee, we have seen the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impact many community-based coalitions and their ability to match funds for federal grant resources. Organizations in our district, such as the Madison Housing Authority, have been influential in creating a safe and healthy environment to treat and prevent youth substance use. However, under these unprecedented times, it has been challenging for many coalitions, especially those who assist with anti-drug education and awareness efforts, to meet these matching grant requirements for the Drug-Free Communities Support Program," said Rep. Kustoff. "This has resulted in an increase in opioid deaths across our communities. I am proud to support this bill that will allow these treatment coalitions to stay afloat and give help to those who need it the most."