The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that Wisconsin has ranked number one in the country for the most prescription medications collected during the fall 2023 Drug Take Back. With a total of 53,122 lbs. of unwanted medications collected this fall, Wisconsin has once again demonstrated its commitment to keeping its communities safe.
Attorney General Josh Kaul expressed his gratitude to the people of Wisconsin for their participation in the event, stating, "Because of collaboration among many partners around the state and the commitment of Wisconsinites to helping to keep their communities safe, we continue to lead the nation in drug take back. Thank you to everyone who participated this fall in Drug Take Back Day."
Since the inception of Drug Take Back in 2010 under the leadership of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Wisconsin has collected a total of 1,202,039 lbs. of unwanted medications. This impressive figure places Wisconsin third in the nation for the most medications collected since the program's inception, trailing only behind Texas and California.
The DEA organizes two Drug Take Back days each year, one in the spring and one in the fall. In Wisconsin, the Department of Justice partners with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) to coordinate and promote the event. Drug Take Back not only provides a safe and convenient means of disposal for unwanted medications but also serves as an opportunity to educate the community about the potential abuse and consequences of improper storage and disposal of these medications.
It is important to note that Drug Take Back Day is not limited to the designated event days. Wisconsin offers over 490 permanent drug disposal boxes that are accessible year-round at various locations such as law enforcement agencies, hospitals, pharmacies, and health clinics. These permanent drug disposal boxes are an essential part of the ongoing effort to combat drug abuse and ensure the proper disposal of medications.
The success of Drug Take Back Day and the availability of permanent drug disposal boxes would not be possible without the generous support of organizations such as Fuchs Trucking, Covanta Energy, the Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, Waukesha County, Waukesha County Sheriff's Office, and all participating local law enforcement agencies. Their contribution plays a vital role in creating a safer and healthier Wisconsin.
For those interested in finding a permanent drug disposal box near them, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) provides a convenient online tool. By visiting their website, individuals can easily locate the nearest permanent drug disposal box in their area.
Wisconsin's remarkable achievement in ranking number one for the most prescription medications collected during the fall 2023 Drug Take Back is a testament to the state's commitment to combatting drug abuse and ensuring the safety of its communities. By actively participating in events like Drug Take Back Day and utilizing the permanent drug disposal boxes, Wisconsinites continue to make a positive impact in the ongoing fight against drug misuse and addiction.
To find out more, go to this link: https://www.doj.state.wi.us/news-releases/wisconsin-ranks-number-one-during-fall-drug-take-back-day-0