(TRENTON) – In response to today’s announcement from Governor Phil Murphy on his plan to address the growing opioid crisis in New Jersey, Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald released the following statement:
“Too many New Jerseyans have lost their lives to opioid addiction. In 2017 alone, there were 2,750 overdose fatalities, or almost eight per day,” said Greenwald (D-Camden/Burlington). “We have to do all we can to combat this crisis and hopefully save lives. That’s why I’ve introduced legislation (A-4744) to ensure residents who receive Medicaid have access to medication assisted treatment for opioid addiction without any prior authorization requirements, which often delay treatment for several days. Every minute is critical for someone struggling with addiction and looking for help. This bill aims to make it easier for patients to get treatment and work towards a healthier future.
“I thank the Governor and Commissioner Johnson for standing with me and my colleagues in the Legislature and supporting and expediting this important legislation. I look forward to working together to find solutions to end the opioid epidemic in New Jersey.”