>>New Task Force to Help Opiate-Dependent Infants
(Harrisburg, PA) -- A new task force is set to get to work soon to help babies that are born dependent on illegal or prescription drugs. Last week, Pennsylvania lawmakers passed House Bill 253 that will, among other things, provide financial help for programs to support children born with addiction. Sponsor Representative Clint Owlett first introduced the bill a few years ago to help babies exposed to addictive opiate drugs while in utero. Owlett says the task force will consist of lawmakers, addiction professionals and people from the Department of Human Services. It is expected to begin its work this month.