Press Releases

Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released the following statement after holding his inaugural Fentanyl and Opioid Crisis Roundtable at Carmel Town Hall. Congressman Lawler was joined by Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, State Senator Rob Rolison, Assemblyman Matt Slater, and dozens of organizations that are experts in treatment and recovery.

"The scourge of the fentanyl and opioid crisis is taking a significant toll on our communities here in the Hudson Valley and it's critical that we work together to find solutions to the devastating impacts it can have," said Rep. Lawler. "Which is why I was proud to hold a roundtable with state and local elected officials, as well as recovery and treatment organizations to discuss concrete solutions to the impacts the fentanyl and opioid crisis is having in our backyard."

"At the federal level, I've already cosponsored a number of pieces of legislation to address this issue, including H.R. 335, the STOP Fentanyl Act, H.R. 795, the Protecting First Responders from Secondary Exposure Act, and H.R. 1076, the Preventing the Financing of Illegal Synthetic Drugs Act," continued Rep. Lawler. "But only together, through partnerships at the federal, state, and local level between government, non-profit organizations, and healthcare organizations, can we begin to unwind the consequences of fentanyl and opioid use here in the Hudson Valley. Our roundtable was an important first step in this process of collaboration in New York's 17th District."

"I am fully committed to doing everything I can at the federal level to stop the inflow of fentanyl at our southern border and points of entry, and am dedicating myself to doing everything I can to assist the organizations that play a critical role treating, assisting, and helping those here in the Hudson Valley struggling with addiction," concluded Rep. Lawler. "As someone who has seen first-hand the incredible positive impacts that recovery can have on families, I'm in this fight for the long haul and know the importance of it. Together, we can make a real impact here and save lives."

“Congressman Lawler’s opioid epidemic roundtable discussion was an important and timely event. Tackling this crisis coming out of the pandemic is a priority of both my administration and the congressman’s," said Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne. "Bringing together partner agencies with our local government resources, as well as state and federal representatives is always a valuable effort and I know the meeting was appreciated.”

"We need a whole-of-government approach to tackle the drug epidemic that is taking our loved ones, friends, and neighbors. I'm honored to stand alongside Congressman Lawler as we work together with federal, state, and local stakeholders to develop effective solutions to this crisis," said state Senator Rob Rolison (39th District).

"The new post pandemic challenges surrounding addiction cannot be ignored and must be tackled with a collective effort on every level of government," stated state Assemblyman Matt Slater (94th District). "It is refreshing to be part of a cohesive team with Congressman Lawler, County Executive Byrne and so many local leaders who are focused on saving lives."

New York's 17th Congressional District is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester County.