[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 143 (Wednesday, September 10, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1749]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL ALCOHOL AND DRUG ADDICTION RECOVERY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ROBERT E. ANDREWS

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 10, 2008

  Mr. ANDREWS. Madam Speaker, whereas, 22.2 million people in the 
United States have faced a substance use disorder in the past year, and 
all deserve to experience the many benefits of recovery; and
  Whereas, treatment reduces reported job problems, including 
incomplete work and absenteeism, by an average of 75 percent; and
  Whereas, treatment is cost effective, with some measurements showing 
a benefit-to-cost ratio of up to 7:1, with substance use disorder 
treatment costing $1,583 per person on average and having a monetary 
benefit to society of nearly $11,487 for each person treated; and
  Whereas, we must recognize the financial savings associated with 
treatment services, and ensure that such services are readily available 
to those who need assistance; and
  Whereas, cost and insurance barriers present obstacles to those who 
need access to treatment facilities and want to re-establish their 
place in the community; and
  Whereas, it is critical that we educate our community members and 
local businesses that substance use disorders are a treatable, yet 
serious health care problem, and by taking steps to address it, as well 
as provide support for the families and children of those with these 
disorders, we can save both lives and dollars; and
  Whereas, to help achieve this goal, the U.S. Department of Health and 
Human Services, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services 
Administration, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, 
and The South Jersey Coalition invite all residents of 1st 
Congressional District of New Jersey to participate in National Alcohol 
and Drug Addiction Recovery Month (Recovery Month); and now, therefore,
  I, Congressman Rob Andrews, do hereby proclaim the month of September 
2008 as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in the 1st 
Congressional District and call upon the people of the 1st 
Congressional District to observe this month with appropriate programs, 
activities, and ceremonies supporting this year's theme, ``Join the 
Voices for Recovery: Saving Lives, Saving Dollars.''

                          ____________________