In a highly anticipated visit Tuesday to Green Bay, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions will speak in front of the National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children.
His visit has many police departments anxious to hear what he will say about opioid abuse, an issue that plagues much of our area.
"Weekly, some agency in the Fox Valley or clearly in Northeast Wisconsin, they're running into this, be it an overdose, be it an arrest for possession, be it somebody selling it," said Jason Weber with the Fox Crossing Police Department.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services said more than 600 people died last year in the state as a result of an overdose. It's a concern many hope to address with AG Sessions.
"Having the Attorney General come and speak, and people to be able to ask questions and have that interaction and let him know the issues that we're dealing with right here on the streets," Weber explained.
While some police departments say talking about the issue and bringing awareness is a good step to solving it, one area lawmaker said he hopes for accountability and people blamed for starting the problem.
"I think it's time we include the manufacturer in this equation, saying you deceived the public and you have to be held accountable," said Sen. Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay).
Many say prescription painkillers are a gateway for opioids and are calling for more action from the government.
"We're paying for all of the pain and the suffering and all the different plans, which are OK, but shouldn't the pharmaceutical companies that misrepresented the facts be held accountable?" Sen. Hansen asked.
Sessions will speak at the KI Convention Center in downtown Green Bay at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday. NBC26 will have full coverage of the event.
VIDEO: Body found in water at Door County marina
