Opioid Epidemic in Colorado - Policies, Programs, & Progress

BRIGHTON, Colorado, - As part of the Obama Administration’s effort to address the opioid epidemic in this country, USDA Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsak has been tasked with leading an interagency effort focused on heroin and prescription drug abuse in rural areas. The department has been convening a series of regional roundtables across the country to raise awareness around this issue and to solicit input from community leaders and medical professionals about the special challenges facing rural communities and what is needed for rural areas to provide effective prevention, treatment and outreach.  Key leaders on the front lines of the opioid crisis in rural Colorado will participate in a roundtable in Brighton, Colorado on September 20. Discussion will include the impacts of opioids on their communities, the programs, practices and projects that have been implemented to assist individuals and families, and the challenges that still remain. 

WHO:             USDA Representatives, key stakeholders, and community leaders.
WHAT:         
  Roundtable:  Opioid Epidemic in Colorado - Policies, Programs, & Progress
WHEN:          
Tuesday, September 20, 1 p.m.
WHERE:        Adams County Government Conference Center, 4430 South Adams Parkway, Brighton, CO

Roundtable participants will be available for media interviews from 12:15 p.m. until 12:45 p.m. and immediately following the event there will be an additional opportunity for media interviews of panelists.