In an effort to combat drug addiction, Senator Kristin Corrado’s legislation to dedicate October 6th of each year as “Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day” has unanimously passed the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.

“Few New Jerseyans have evaded the wrath of the opioid crisis,” Corrado (R-40) said. “Many of us have a family member, friend, or neighbor who suffers from or has succumbed to addiction, but too often we’re afraid to talk about it. Raising awareness of the scope of the opioid problem and promoting recovery can help end the stigma and save lives.”

Corrado’s bipartisan resolution, SJR-35, aims to heighten awareness of the opioid abuse epidemic and its effects throughout the state.

Opioids include heroin, fentanyl, and prescription pain relievers such as oxycodone, as well as many other drugs.

Since 2004, there have been almost 14,000 opioid overdoses in New Jersey. According to the Centers for Disease Control, New Jersey’s per capita rate of heroin related deaths is more than triple the national average. Heroin overdoses have escalated to become one of the leading causes of death in the state.

Corrado has encouraged families to prevent opioid abuse by participating in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, which promotes the safe and legal disposal of unused medication. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the majority of teenagers abusing prescription drugs acquire them unnoticed from their family or friends homes.

“The unprecedented rise in opioid deaths suggests we must do more to prevent and treat opioid addiction,” Corrado added.  “Increasing education about this disease will reduce the stigma, prevent abuse, and encourage those suffering to get help.”