On April 25, Arkansans once again took part in Drug Take Back Day, joining Americans across the country in a shared effort to safely collect and dispose of unused and expired prescription medications. These events continue to provide an important avenue to keep them out of the wrong hands and reduce the risk of misuse in our communities.

Arkansas has long been a strong participant in this initiative. Since 2010, Arkansans have turned in approximately 367 tons of unused prescription drugs through Take Back programs. In addition to the twice-yearly Take Back Days, there are more than 300 permanent drop-off locations available across the state year-round. These sites make it simple for individuals and families to safely dispose of medications they no longer need.

Early reports from this spring’s Take Back Day show exceptional involvement across the state. On April 25 alone, the Tri-County Drug Task Force, managed by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, safely collected more than 314 pounds of unused prescription medications. Additional collection efforts in Pine Bluff, White Hall and Redfield brought in another 405 pounds. That success carried over from last October when the Arkansas State Police and Arkansas National Guard collected an additional 26,000 pounds of medication.

Overall, a little more over 50,000 pounds of expired and unused medication were safely collected of during the April Take Back event, another strong showing. These efforts represent the demonstrated need to responsibly dispose of unused medications and the commitment of community leaders and members to protect their loved ones, friends and neighbors.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Arkansas had the highest dispensing rate of opioids in the nation in 2024. Other nearby states continue to experience similarly high rates of prescribing, and Drug Take Back programs remain one of many important tools in reducing the risk of these surplus prescription pills being abused.

Research has shown that a significant portion of opioids and other controlled substances used outside of a medical setting come from family and friends, often without their knowledge. When unused medications are left in the home, they can create unnecessary risk. Safe disposal helps reduce that risk and removes one more pathway that can lead to addiction. 

Addressing the broader opioid crisis requires continued coordination between federal, state and local partners. Law enforcement, health care providers and community organizations all have a role to play in prevention, treatment and recovery efforts. 

I have supported initiatives aimed at strengthening that response. This includes funding for specialty courts such as drug courts and veterans’ treatment courts, which help individuals struggling with substance use disorder receive treatment while reducing incarceration.

I have also supported legislation to expand prevention, education, treatment and recovery programs, as well as efforts to increase access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses and save lives. Additionally, I continue to support research into non-addictive alternatives for pain management to help reduce reliance on opioids when appropriate. 

Drug Take Back programs––both on designated days and year-round––remain a practical and effective part of this broader effort. They provide an easy way for individuals to take responsibility for unused medications and help protect their families and communities. 

I encourage Arkansans to continue taking part and make use of the permanent drop-off locations available throughout the state. These actions may seem small on their own, but together they make a real difference. There is always more work to be done and I will continue working across all levels of government to address substance abuse, support recovery and keep our communities safe.