Over the last several years, we have seen a crisis arise in towns and cities across the state, one that has brought tragedy to those families directly affected but also has caused larger social consequences across our communities, affecting the broader quality of life for all residents. It's a crisis that has put tremendous strain on our emergency rooms, our law enforcement and our other first responders.

Our law enforcement leaders tell us we cannot arrest our way out of this problem. We can, though, find better ways to promote prevention, enhance enforcement and improve treatment.