Washington, D.C.— Last week, Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) and Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) introduced legislation to reauthorize the Comprehensive Addiction Recovery through Effective Employment and Reentry (CAREER) Act, which addresses the impact substance abuse is having on America’s workforce. This bill would reauthorize and make improvements to much-needed federal programs for individuals in states most devastated by substance abuse.
In 2018, Congressman Barr and Senator McConnell introduced the CAREER Act which was included in the bipartisan SUPPORT For Patients and Communities Act. This landmark legislation passed Congress and was signed into law by the President. The CAREER Act supports Americans recovering from substance use disorder by ensuring they have the support they need to reenter the workforce and maintain gainful employment.
“Since the enactment of the CAREER Act, Kentucky has received more than $8.5 million in federal funding and has demonstrated promising success in providing the resources necessary for Kentuckians to overcome addiction”, said Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06). “As substance abuse continues to ravage our communities, it is crucial that we prioritize assistance and allocate resources to support people seeking recovery. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Congresswoman Davids on this crucial legislation.”
“Substance abuse has affected far too many Kansas families, and we must ensure those recovering from addiction are supported and have access to good-paying jobs. I’m proud to join Representative Barr in leading the CAREER Act, which enables individuals recovering from substance abuse to find employment and live an independent life. There are so many local organizations who walk alongside our neighbors in recovery, and I’m proud to support their mission.” – Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03)