The opioid crisis is destroying families and communities across the United States, killing more than 42,000 people in 2016—more than any previous year on record. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration likewise reported that an estimated 3.3 million Americans aged 12 or over misused prescription pain relievers in 2016.

As a result, Congress has focused significant attention on identifying potential solutions, resulting in the introduction of hundreds of opioid-related bills, as well as hearings and markups on the enforcement of existing laws, prevention, treatment and recovery. For more information on APA efforts and congressional activities, see below.