NASHVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Speaking September 12, 2017 before business, health care, and community leaders of the state’s Tennessee Business Roundtable in Nashville, Republican candidate Randy Boyd officially unveiled his 10 point plan to fight the state’s alarming opioid epidemic – with specific initiatives focused on mobilization, prevention, and recovery.
With Tennessee facing staggering statistics, including an opioid prescription rate of nearly double the national average, Boyd’s plan is a multifaceted approach that better aligns and leverages the work of state, local, and federal partners, while significantly increasing the urgency of efforts already underway.
The plan is a product of extensive discussions and collaborations Boyd has had with key law enforcement, medical professionals, community, and faith leaders throughout Tennessee.
“As Governor, I will mobilize all of the state’s resources to quickly and aggressively attack the opioid epidemic. No longer is this a time for pilot programs, task force discussions, or continuous hearings,” Boyd said. “This challenge is growing, and it is a big priority everywhere I go. We need big, bold and swift action – and we need it now.”
Specific initiatives Boyd announced include officially declaring a State of Emergency in Tennessee in dealing with the opioid crisis, and appointing a Chief Epidemic Officer as an interim cabinet-level position answering directly to the governor and dedicated to coordinating efforts.
“To truly make Tennessee THE State of Opportunity for better education and greater job growth in every community, we must make a total commitment to ending this epidemic,” Boyd said. “Not only will our urgent focus help save countless lives, but estimates have shown we can save $18 for every $1 we spend on preventing opioid abuse. But we must get on with it.”