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Wittman Hosts Opioid Crisis Seminar in Williamsburg

Williamsburg, July 26, 2024

WILLIAMSBURG – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) hosted a seminar in Williamsburg to provide parents, educators, community leaders, and interested Virginia’s First District residents with information and resources to combat the effects of the opioid epidemic.

“As the co-chair of the Congressional Public Health Caucus, one of my top priorities is ensuring those struggling with opioid use disorder and their loved ones have access to critical information and resources needed to stay safe and healthy,” said Rep. Wittman. “I thank the experts who joined us today for engaging with Virginia’s First District residents, and I look forward to our continued efforts in building a more healthy and safe community.”


Watch the livestream of the seminar here.

The congressman was joined by the following experts:

  • Assistant Special Agent in Charge Patrick Hartig, Drug Enforcement Administration Norfolk District Office

  • Dr. Adam Brown, Senior Director for Student Services, Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools

  • Dr. Mia McCoy, Substance Use Disorder Quality Manager, Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services


Before his time in Congress, Rep. Wittman earned his master’s degree in public health and spent over 26 years working for the Virginia Department of Public Health. He currently serves as co-chair of the Congressional Public Health Caucus. 

Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. Wittman has supported legislation to combat the opioid epidemic and tackle this crisis head on: 

  • Cosponsored the Protecting Americans from Fentanyl Trafficking Act:

    • Permanently places fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I controlled substance

    • Designation places permanent controls and penalties for possession, sale, etc.

  • Cosponsored Sammy’s Law:

    • Requires 3rd party software on social media platforms that alerts parents when their children are exposed to harmful material, including drugs

  • Voted for the Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act:

    • Reauthorizes several grant programs and activities that address substance use and misuse

    • Provides grants for prevention, treatment, and recovery programs

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