SPEAKER APPLAUDS REP. GEORGE’S PARTICIPATION IN NATIONAL CONFERENCE

Topeka – Thousands of state lawmakers from across the country recently attended the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) held this year in Boston , MA . The annual meeting provides lawmakers the opportunity to study and discuss the many topics and issues facing their states.

Among the many sessions held, they heard from a panel on supporting substance abuse treatment and prevention. Kansas House Representative Pat George ( R-Dodge City ) served on the panel and shared his personal story of drug addiction.

“Alcohol and drug abuse present major challenges for states, including budget implications for related Medicaid costs, uncompensated emergency room services, criminal justice system costs, and family problems,” Rep. George said. “However, there are steps states can take to improve their alcohol and drug prevention and treatment programs. It is my hope that by sharing my personal experience, lawmakers will be inspired to make a difference in their states.”

Rep. George has become a national leader in substance abuse treatment and prevention. He serves on several national committees, including NCSL’s Health Committee and the Substance Abuse Advise Committee. He also is a member of the Blueprint for States Commission as well as Vice-Chairman of Board of Directors for the Valley Hope Association, a treatment facility headquartered in Kansas .

“Rep. George has been a strong advocate and has worked with the private sector to make sure state programs work to help those battling their addiction – programs that are well-intended but may be ineffective. I applaud his dedication and leadership both here in Kansas and at the national level,” Speaker Melvin Neufeld (R-Ingalls) said.

State Senator Gary Dillon (Pierceton, Indiana); Dr. Adam Brooks with the Treatment Research Institute of Pennsylvania; Robert DeLeo with Northeastern University and the Honorable Michael Dukakis, former Governor of Massachusetts and professor, Northeastern University also took part in the panel’s discussion.

NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.

Top Photo: Fellow panelists (L-R) Indiana State Senator Gary Dillon, Dr. Adam Brooks,and the Honorable Michael Dukakis listen as Kansas Rep. Pat George talks about his personal struggle overcoming his addictions.

Bottom Photo: Rep. Pat George shares the challenges he faced when seeking treatment for his addictions. Indiana State Senator Gary Dillon listens.