Episode 582 • • 1:56:29 - 1:59:37
582: Eradicate Misery
Vermont Heroin Epidemic, Afghan Poppy Production, Prescription Opioids
Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin dedicated his entire State of the State address to the "gripping" heroin and opioid crisis in his state. The epidemic is linked to the high price of prescription painkillers like OxyContin, which leads addicts to switch to heroin that can cost as little as $4 a bag. The discussion notes that record-high poppy production in Afghanistan, occurring under US military presence, is a primary source for the global heroin supply.