Message from Rob Wittman:
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
According to a recent Virginia Department of Health (VDH) 2025 report, the drug overdose death rate per 100,000 Virginians has decreased significantly from 2024. While this is a good step forward, more must be done. I continue to be committed to supporting policies that build upon this success – saving lives and reducing drug-related harm to our communities.
Earlier this year, I supported an amendment for the SUPPORT Act to improve awareness of and access to mental health and substance use disorder services and I was pleased to see that legislation signed into law. Beyond recovery services, the SUPPORT Act strengthens prevention efforts and improves coordination across federal, state, and local partners.
Additionally — as a father and grandfather of young children — I understand the harm posed by fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, and I hear your concerns. Parents should never feel like they are unable to keep their children safe. This year, I have co-sponsored Sammy’s Law — which would give parents the ability to be alerted when dangerous or concerning interactions, including drug purchases, occur online involving their children under the age of 17. This bill has had a committee hearing, and I look forward to future action.
In today’s age, where children are able to purchase illicit drugs online and are at risk of harming themselves or others, we must ensure that parents are empowered and informed. We must also ensure that people of all ages have access to mental health and substance use disorder services to prevent intentional harm and overdose.
I remain committed to supporting policies that strengthen public safety, combat the flow of illegal drugs, and provide law enforcement with the tools necessary to protect our communities.
Sincerely,
Rob Wittman
Member of Congress, Virginia’s 1st District