WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Congressman John L. Mica (R-7th District) today requested that a House oversight committee conduct a Congressional hearing in Central Florida to examine the growing problem of OxyContin abuse. "
The abuse of this drug has resulted in record numbers of deaths in not only Central Florida but across the nation," stated Rep. Mica.
In the past, Central Florida has had unprecedented numbers of heroin-related deaths. Now, recent reports indicate OxyContin-related deaths are exceeding levels of even the tragic heroin epidemic.  According to a Florida medical examiners report, more fatalities were caused by OxyContin and its generic equivalent oxycodone between 2001 and 2002 than from heroin. In Florida alone, 573 overdoses were attributed to the prescription pain medication over that period.
Rep. Mica addressed his letter to current U.S. House of Representatives Criminal Justice, Drug Policy and Human Resources Subcommittee Chairman Mark Souder (R-IN). As former Chairman (and still a senior member) of this subcommittee, Mica conducted 45 hearings on illegal drug problems in Central Florida and across the nation from 1999-2000."
This new drug abuse epidemic deserves prompt attention and a full investigation by all levels of our government," the Congressman added.
The request follows a series of articles by the Orlando Sentinel detailing the OxyContin epidemic in Central Florida. Rep. Mica is expected to meet with Chairman Souder next week regarding the upcoming hearing, and more details will be announced as they become available.