Legislators who see the clear need for more treatment options are blocked by those who want to punish people for addiction.
opioid epidemic
Posted inNation & World, News
Goal of nation’s first opioid court: Keep users alive
The Buffalo, N.Y., initiative emphasizes earlier drug treatment and frequent check-ins with a judge.
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Posted inMaine, News
As Maine’s opioid crisis worsens, 128th Legislature largely does nothing
Confronted by shocking numbers of overdose deaths and addicts at risk, lawmakers had an opportunity to make meaningful – and, many say, necessary – changes. They didn’t.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
Legislature passes bill to rein in drug company perks for doctors
The measure, intended to prevent conflicts of interest when doctors prescribe drugs, awaits the signature of Gov. Paul LePage.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
House upholds LePage veto of bill to shield those who report drug overdoses
While the bill passed both chambers of the Legislature unanimously earlier this month, House Republicans voted overwhelmingly on Monday in support of Gov. Paul LePage’s veto.
Posted inMaine, News
Maine attorney general joins multistate investigation of opioid manufacturers
States across the U.S. want to know if the companies played a role in creating the epidemic of drug addiction and deaths.
Posted inMaine, News
University of New England gets $10.7 million to research alternatives to opioids
The federal grant will more than double funds for biomedical research already underway into treatments that aren’t addictive.
Posted inEditorials, Opinion
Our View: Mandatory license suspension won’t end Maine’s addiction crisis
Stripping driving privileges for drug offenses makes it harder for people to rebuild their lives and become responsible citizens.
Posted inMaine Voices, Op-eds, Opinion
Health of many Mainers depends on bill in Congress, Medicaid expansion
We need to demand help for the poor, people over 50, those at risk from substance use disorder and even taxpayers.
Posted inCops & Courts, Maine, News, Politics
House upholds LePage veto of bill to encourage reporting of overdoses
The measure had passed the Legislature unanimously, but after the governor objected, 55 Republicans switch to his side.