Rep. Ted Budd Introduces the Promote Work and Improve Health Act

Press Release

Today, Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the Promote Work and Improve Health Act. The bill directs states to prioritize ways to promote the dignity of work as a way to fight substance abuse.

Specifically, the Promote Work and Health Act requires states to certify to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration what they have done to promote work and employment when they apply for the Substance Abuse Block Grant.

Rep. Budd said in a statement:

"A job is more than just a paycheck. It can provide purpose, worth, and dignity. Too often, Washington fails to recognize the relationship between steady employment and improved mental health. Encouraging states to prioritize work as a solution to substance abuse will make a positive difference for North Carolinians."

Background Statistics:

Earlier this year, the CDC reported that fentanyl overdoses are now the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 45.

In 2017, the International Journal of Drug Policy reported that illicit drug use increases as unemployment increases.

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, prolonged public assistance disincentivizes participation in the workforce.

Source