MOSES LAKE — Opioid abuse in America has become an epidemic. Lawmakers, health officials and police officials are taking steps to combat the problem and their efforts will be highlighted on Friday during Rep. Dan Newhouse’s “Opioid Summit” in Moses Lake.

The free summit will take place at the Moses Lake Civic Center, 401 S. Balsam St., from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. A panel consisting of representatives from the Moses Lake Police Department, U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, Washington State Department of Health and U.S. Department of Agriculture will be on hand to discuss the crisis and what is being done to combat it.

Attendees will be given the opportunity to share their stories and question the panel, as well as learn about the prescription drug take back program and drop-off center locations. People are encouraged to visit https://bit.ly/2KNmX6g and fill out a short questionnaire regarding the opioid crisis.

For more information about the summit contact Newhouse’s Yakima office at 509-452-3243.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.