LANGHORNE, PA - Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-8) is urging Bucks County residents to help safely dispose of unused and expired prescription medicines to help keep them out of the wrong hands. On Saturday, April 29 from 10am -2pm individuals can drop off items at locations around the county – a complete list can be found at www.fitzpatrick.house.gov/prescription-drop-boxes  

“Nearly 70% of people who abuse prescription pain relievers get them from their friends or family. As out community continues to grapple with the devastating effects of the opioid epidemic, it is crucial we take every step possible to stop prescription medication from falling into the wrong hands,” said Fitzpatrick. “Bucks Co. has collected roughly 40 tons of unused medications – the most in Pennsylvania. I’m proud that local government, law enforcement and community leaders in our county continue to step up to provide this service and do their part to combat the drug abuse crisis.

Fitzpatrick, a former drug crime federal prosecutor and certified Emergency Medical Technician, is a member of both the Bipartisan Heroin Task Force and the Congressional Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery Caucus.

Last month, Fitzpatrick testified in front of the House Appropriations subcommittees on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Commerce, Justice, Science to urge appropriate funding authorized by CARA and the 21st Century Cures Act that will help communities combat the opioid epidemic. He is the lead sponsor of the INTERDICT Act and a cosponsor of the Synthetics Trafficking and Overdose Protection (STOP) Act – legislation designed to help stop dangerous drugs like fentanyl and carfentanil from being shipped through our borders to drug traffickers here in the United States.