Lawmakers are introducing new legislation to help curb the opioid epidemic. Katelynn Ulrich introduces us to one of the many families searching for answers, and shows us how leaders aim to help.
LOWVILLE, N.Y. -- Lowville Resident Karissa Mushtare knows addiction. The father of her children is an opioid addict, who is currently in jail.
“He had a toothache -- and with that toothache he was given 28 percocets,” said Mushtare. “It’s me with three kids, right now. I don’t know what I’m doing, but I know I’m doing something right because they’re healing."
Mushtare’s story is one of the many that make up the opioid addiction crisis.
“Every time I see new data about it, I’m stunned by how many people this epidemic is affecting,” said Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.
In an effort to help families, Senator Gillibrand is pushing for new legislation.
“Our bill is called the Opioid Addiction Prevention Act,” said Gillibrand.
The law, similar to New York state’s, will put a seven-day limit on opioid prescriptions for acute pain. Doctors across the nation won’t be able to give a longer prescription or initially prescribe refills. And while the law isn't it perfect, it aims to work as a preventative method.
“Well, I think it’s a step, not a fix for the total problem,” said Credo Community Center Executive Director James P. Scordo.
“But it will limit the supply that’s put out there in communities,” said Scordo.
It’s one of many efforts including Governor Andrew Cuomo's plan for state assistance for medication that reverses opioid overdoses Monday.
“I think it’s very helpful, we need to tackle this opioid crisis across the board,” said Senator Gillibrand.
It’s a tragic problem with no easy fix.
“It might work, by some hope,” said Mushtare.
Something Mushtare knows well.
“The only way it will truly fix is when the people are ready,” added Mushtare.