HOUSE RESOLUTION 3

(By Mr. Speaker, Mr. Armstead)

[Introduced January 13, 2016]

H. R. 3    – “Creating a Select Committee on Prevention and Treatment of Substance Abuse”

Whereas, the State of West Virginia is currently experiencing an epidemic relating to the issue of substance abuse; and,

Whereas, West Virginia has the highest rate of drug overdose deaths in the United States at more than double the national average; and,

Whereas, nearly 2900 West Virginians have overdosed on prescription painkillers or heroin during the past five years; and,

Whereas, drug overdoses have become the leading cause of injury in West Virginia surpassing motor vehicle related injuries; therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Delegates:

That for the remainder of the 82^nd Legislature, there is hereby created a Select Committee on Prevention and Treatment of Substance Abuse, consisting of not more than eleven members of the House of Delegates, to be appointed by the Speaker.  Notwithstanding the provisions of any House rule to the contrary, the Select Committee hereby created shall receive testimony, consider legislation, and recommend action to the Speaker of the House regarding all issues relating to and regarding the prevention and treatment of substance abuse in the State of West Virginia; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the rules of the House governing Standing Committees shall govern the actions and proceedings of this Select Committee insofar as applicable.