WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the RCORP Authorization Act, legislation that would maintain the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program to establish and expand prevention, treatment, and recovery services in rural areas for substance use disorders, related behavioral health conditions, and other related public health issues.

“West Virginians know firsthand the devastating toll the opioid epidemic has had on our state’s families and communities. We also know that recovery is possible when those struggling have access to the right resources,” Senator Capito said. “The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program has helped strengthen prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts in communities that often face unique challenges accessing care. By preserving this successful program, we can provide greater certainty for rural providers and ensure communities in West Virginia and across the country continue to receive the support they need to recover.”

“While Vermont has seen a decrease in overdose deaths in recent years, our work to help those struggling with addiction isn’t over—far from it. We need to do everything in our power to support folks on the road to recovery, especially in rural communities, where substance use disorder treatment and resources are harder to come by,” Senator Welch said. “We’re working across the aisle to ensure that rural communities in Vermont, West Virginia, and across the country can access vital prevention and recovery services necessary to combat the opioid crisis.”

The RCORP Authorization Act would:

  • Formally authorize the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) to ensure its long-term future.
  • Expand access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services for substance use disorders in rural communities.
  • Support local partnerships to strengthen coordinated, community-based care.
  • Provide grants to rural organizations to address opioid use disorder and other behavioral health challenges.
  • Authorize funds annually beginning in Fiscal Year 2027 to sustain and expand the program.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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