Prescription Drug Enforcement

HR 471, the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act

Congressman COOK

Supports Drug Legislation

WASHINGTON D.C. Representative Paul Cook (R- Apple Valley) voted for HR 471, the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act of 2015. Wednesday April 22^nd, the Bill passed the House with bipartisan support.

This Bill offers a critical and comprehensive approach to combating prescription drug abuse by increasing collaboration between the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), prescription drug distributors, and pharmacies.

The Bill also directs intergovernmental agency collaboration and integration regarding drug abuse enforcement and preserving patient accessibility between the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and the DEA.

Said Cook, “I’m proud to have voted for this legislation because it establishes greater protections against the inappropriate use of prescription drugs.

This Bill brings greater clarity and transparency to the requirements for safe and secure distribution of these medicines. This is only the first step, but it’s an important step in battling the drug abuse problem in our neighborhoods.”