This week’s Prevention Pulse highlights legislative action, technological innovation in treatment, and local prevention success stories. From Capitol Hill to Staten Island, new efforts are underway to disrupt overdose trends, modernize access to care, and deliver prevention tools directly into the hands of those who need them. We’re also spotlighting two upcoming CEU opportunities and timely blog features to support families and caregivers.
Addiction News & Policy Updates: Week of June 16
House Passes Bill to Strengthen Fentanyl Enforcement
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed bipartisan legislation to permanently classify fentanyl analogs as Schedule I substances, an effort aimed at curbing trafficking operations linked to Mexican cartels and Chinese chemical suppliers. As AP News reports, proponents argue the bill provides law enforcement with stronger legal tools, while critics warn it lacks funding for addiction treatment and may sideline public health priorities.
NJ App Modernizes Methadone Access
In New Jersey, a pilot program is testing a smartphone app that allows patients receiving methadone treatment for opioid-use disorder to manage take-home doses remotely. According to NJ Spotlight News, the new model enhances patient flexibility and autonomy while reducing the need for daily clinic visits, potentially transforming the delivery of medication-assisted treatment.
Wellspring Brings Prevention to Long Branch
Wellspring Center for Prevention recently introduced a range of prevention programs in Long Branch, offering age-specific initiatives for both children and seniors. As reported by TAPinto, the effort includes puppet-based education for youth and peer-led support for older adults, aiming to build resilience across generations.
Urine Drug Test Data Offers Early Overdose Insights
A new study finds that real-time urine drug test results can act as an early warning system for national overdose trends, reflecting shifts in drug use weeks ahead of official reports. Researchers highlighted by Fierce Healthcare suggest that this data could help public health leaders respond more quickly to surges in fentanyl and stimulant-related deaths.
Staten Island to Install Free Naloxone Vending Machines
In a bold step toward 24/7 harm reduction, silive.com reports that Staten Island will soon deploy vending machines stocked with free naloxone kits and drug test strips. Strategically placed across the North Shore, these machines are designed to increase public access to lifesaving tools and reduce the stigma around overdose prevention.
Upcoming CEU Trainings for Prevention Professionals
Wellspring continues its summer training series with two virtual sessions designed for CADCs, LCADCs, and CPS professionals seeking to deepen their skills and meet CEU requirements.
CPS Course: Prevention Program Evaluation
On June 26–27, join us for P105: Prevention Program Evaluation. This two-day morning session (9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) offers user-friendly tools for evaluating prevention strategies and measuring program outcomes, ideal for both new and seasoned professionals.
Marijuana: Clinical Update & Renewal Training
On June 27, Joel Levine leads Marijuana: A Clinical Update, a full-day training approved for 6 CEUs. Running from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the session covers current marijuana trends, legal considerations, and practical applications for addiction professionals and prevention specialists.
Explore more training opportunities on our events calendar.
Prevention Blog Highlights
This week’s blog entries offer personal stories and practical guidance for parents, caregivers, and mental health advocates alike.
A Teen’s Journey Through Anorexia
In A High School Senior’s Battle With Anorexia, a New Jersey student opens up about her struggle with an eating disorder and how she found her way to recovery. Her story offers important insight for parents, educators, and peers looking to recognize early warning signs.
Parenting Styles: What Works and What Doesn’t
If you’ve ever wondered how your parenting style impacts your child’s development, check out The Pros and Cons of Different Parenting Styles. This post breaks down the most common approaches and offers guidance for choosing a style that supports healthy boundaries and emotional well-being.
Helping Seniors Cope With Loss
Losing a spouse can have a profound impact on older adults. In How to Help Seniors Cope With the Loss of a Spouse, we share ways family members can offer meaningful support, from listening with empathy to connecting seniors with community resources.