Rep. Serpa Attends Seminar Exploring Science Behind Addiction, Treatment, Prevention

Representative Patricia A. Serpa (D-Dist. 27, Coventry, Warwick, West Warwick) recently attended a three-day bipartisan workshop, titled: “The Science that Underlies Drug Abuse, Addiction, Treatment and Prevention” as part of a The National Conference of State Legislatures’ (NCSL) Addiction Studies Program for the States 2013 seminar.

“As I’ve said before, addiction is a battle that not all of us have been through," said Rep. Serpa. "However, it’s important to acknowledge its existence so we can empathize with others who, unfortunately, have to fight every day of their lives in order to avoid succumbing to it.”  

The NCSL seminar fostered in-depth discussion among state leaders about a variety of related topics, such as “The Biology of Addiction and Public Policy,” “Treating the Chronic Disease of Addiction” and “The Science of Effective Community-Based Prevention.” The seminar also encouraged state teams to create a six-month plan to help them implement and address related issues in their states after hearing the latest policy and scientific studies, as well as a criminal justice presentation.

“This seminar was wonderful because it really brought to light the many misconceptions about addiction, recovery and prevention," Rep. Serpa said. "Legislators like myself are in a position to be mindful of these things and submit legislation that will help people get their lives back on track, so it is even more important to understand the complexities of the addiction and recovery process. This workshop provided us with excellent tools to navigate the world of prescription drug abuse prevention and medication-assisted treatment options. I hope to put this knowledge to good use in the upcoming legislative session.”

The workshop took place from Nov. 14-16 at The Georgian Terrace Hotel in Atlanta and was sponsored by NCSL, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, National Families in Action and the Treatment Research Institute. Funding was provided through a science education grant from the National Institute of Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

In September, the Rhode Island Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Dependence (RICAODD) recognized Representative Serpa for her work to aid and protect those suffering from addiction with the James H. Ottmar Award. She was also the torchbearer for the Providence Waterfire held in honor of National Recovery Month this year.