The chaos began in the late 1990s. Researchers had recently developed an opioid based drug with the intention of being a pain killer. There were questions, but pharmaceutical companies stressed and reassured that the pain killers would not cause an addiction. In 2015 alone, more than 33,000 Americans died due to opioid related overdose. With the large death toll only increasing, it’s extremely crucial as to what the Government plans on doing next.

With 64,000 lives being claimed by prescription opioids, accumulating more deaths than car crashes, H.I.V, and combined for annual deaths, the government’s next moves are now crucial to future of American society. A final report has recently been released, saying that the Department of Justice is to set up nationwide drug courts, a national media campaign, and expanded educational programs.  However, it’s estimated the campaign would need millions to launch.

There are other things that need to be taken into consideration as well. It’s evident that a large portion of the affected population is single, white, and male with a GED or high school diploma for their highest education. Studies also support that there is a huge connection between drug abuse and mental illness, however a major shortage in psychiatrists.

As time goes by and the death rate only increases, the action and response the GOP and congress will take is now critical during this time of crisis.