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Government / News / Southampton Press / 1454035

Southampton Town Considering Creating Opioid Task Force To Combat Spread Of Drugs

authorAmanda Bernocco on Oct 5, 2017

An opioid task force that would help form a game plan to target drug addiction in the area is under consideration by the Southampton Town Board.

Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman pitched the proposal at the board’s work session on Thursday, October 5, noting that he envisions a 15-member group of educators, government representatives, youth leaders and police representatives, among others, who could discuss ways to help address the spread of opioid drug abuse.

The supervisor said he feels the task force is needed because of an increase in drug overdoses in the region. “It’s certainly something that’s impacting the five East End towns and Suffolk County,” Mr. Schneiderman said.

Councilwoman Christine Scalera suggested getting town supervisors from the other East End towns involved, with Councilman John Bouvier adding that health officials should also be part of the task force.

Mr. Schneiderman noted that the task force would consist of about 15 members who would meet over the course of several months. It was not immediately clear when the task force would be created or when it would begin meeting.

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