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Demonstrators Urge Action On Heroin

A group of concerned Kentuckians gathered in the Capitol Tuesday to urge lawmakers to come together behind a heroin bill during this session.

When Governor Steve Beshear and Attorney General Jack Conway announced plans to expand drug treatment by providing heroin overdose kits to hard-hit hospitals Tuesday, they did so with demonstrators setting up shop right down the hall.

Protest organizer Jessica Padgett told cn|2 the event was intended "to unify our voice and let our legislators know that we're gravely disappointed with their lack of action last year and we really hope they take us into consideration this year when they go to vote on these heroin bills."

Padgett adds, with heroin deaths continuing to rise and competing proposals winding their way through the General Assembly, she expects some form of legislation to pass this year – though it’s unclear which specific provisions will be included. Some proposals pour more resources into treatment, while others focus on strengthening penalties.

While the number of heroin deaths for 2014 hasn’t been released, officials expect it to top the 230 reported in 2013.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.
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