Bridging the gap between neuroscience research and policy
Written by Carol Gianessi, Ph.D. Edited Sarah Banducci, Ph.D., Ryan Bell, Ph.D., and Rachel Haake, Ph.D. June 9, 2021 Abstract Opioid overdose deaths have significantly increased over the past two decades in the United States and within North Carolina specifically [1]. For every opioid overdose death there are approximately 30 non-fatal overdoses, occasions that may…
Written by Seth Hurley, Ph.D. December 2nd, 2019 Abstract Senate Bill 544 aims to provide improved access to non-opioid treatment alternatives for pain. Opioids are very effective pain relievers; however, they also have additional negative side-effects. Over-prescription and reliance on opioids for pain management has led to a nation-wide opioid epidemic that has severely impacted…
Written by Seth Hurley, Ph.D. October 28, 2019 Abstract The Opioid Prescription and Treatment Opt Out Act allows individuals to voluntarily opt out of receiving opioid medications. The bill was drafted in response to over-prescription of opioids in North Carolina. Prescription opioid medications have an addiction potential and over-prescription of opioids has contributed to an…
Written by Rachel Haake, M.A. August 7, 2019 Abstract The School-Based Mental Health bill responds to the growing incidence of youth suicide in North Carolina, which has nearly doubled in the last ten years and has become the second leading cause of death for children ages 10-17. The bill requires schools to implement school-based mental…
Written By Josh Frost November 2, 2018 Abstract PFAS are chemicals in many products which accumulate in the environment and in humans, potentially causing adverse health effects. Two companies in North Carolina have been found to be contaminating the Cape Fear River with GenX, a PFAS. The Legislative Response to Emerging Contaminants strengthens pollutant regulations,…