U.S. Congressman Greg Walden (R-Hood River) on Thursday announced a collection site in Umatilla County for the disposal of excess opioid and prescription medications.
The announcement is part of the DEA’s “National Prescription Drug Take Back Day” initiative on Saturday, Oct. 28, which gives people across the country the opportunity to help address opioid abuse in their communities.
On Oct. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., people can dispose of their opioid and prescription drugs at the Hermiston Police Department.
“The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of excess prescription drugs, while also providing an opportunity to raise awareness of the opioid crisis and to educate our friends, family members, and neighbors about the potential for abuse of medications,” said Walden. “Here in Oregon, more people died last year from drug overdoses than from car accidents. I hope you’ll join me on this Take Back Day as we work together to make our communities safer.”
This initiative comes as Walden’s Energy and Commerce Committee recently announced a hearing for next Wednesday, Oct. 25, on the crisis.
