Trending Topics

Federal lawmakers to hold discussion on heroin epidemic

In 2014, Manatee County led all 67 counties in heroin overdose deaths per capita

Associated Press

BRADENTON, Fla. — U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio and Rep. Vern Buchanan, both of whom are running for re-election, will gather at a roundtable discussion at Manatee Memorial Hospital to talk about the heroin and opioid epidemic.

The Bradenton Herald reports the meeting will be held at noon on Monday. Health care officials, local law enforcement and community leaders will also be at the discussion.

Manatee County has been the hardest hit by the heroin epidemic in Florida. In 2014, Manatee led all 67 counties in heroin overdose deaths per capita, and this year it’s already seen almost 900 suspected heroin overdoses.