Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is now blitzing… against opioids amongst student-athletes. Paxton’s new coalition announced the pilot program “Friday Night Lights Against Opioids” earlier today. The AG claimed deaths among teens have increased nationwide by 94% since 2019.
Over 3.5 million at-home medication/drug disposal packets will be passed out to the student-athletes, teachers, and community leaders in state.
“The opioid and fentanyl crisis are monumental threats to the health and well-being of all Texans, and especially our young people,” Paxton said, during the afternoon press conference. “Opioids are a gateway drug to bigger problems like heroin and human trafficking, and most opioid misuse began with sports injuries or people taking drugs from friends of family members. Combating the skyrocketing, skyrocketing opioid crisis has always been a top priority.”
All packets will be distributed at all remaining Texas home football games for the regular season. Public service announcements will also occur during regulation and educational materials will be sent to over one million parents and guardians.
The pilot program will use a coalition of public officials NFL Hall of Famers, and community leaders across Texas. Worthington grad and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Mike Singletary is a strong proponent of the cause.
“All of us can make a difference to save that one,” Singletary said.
CLICK HERE to listen to the Texas HS Football Podcast, with Taylor Arenz
