Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Allyson Schwartz issued the following statement expressing her opposition to the proposed methadone clinic at 7900 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia PA.

“Last week I expressed my strong opposition for the proposal to develop a methadone clinic at 7900 Frankford Avenue. I continue to oppose this clinic opening in Northeast Philadelphia and have been working with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to prevent plans from moving forward.

“Information has recently emerged that those involved in the development of this clinic have a history of questionable financial and legal issues. In addition, they apparently lack any medical credentials. Clinics of this nature provide narcotics and can pose a health and safety threat if not administered by reputable and qualified professionals.

“Federal laws and regulations exist to protect communities from this threat and I am working with federal, state and local officials to ensure that all rules and regulations are fully enforced.

“Given these serious allegations, I urge the owner of the Frankford Avenue property to take action to terminate this lease.

“Northeast Philadelphia is a vibrant residential and commercial community with a diverse population, including vulnerable seniors and school children. We cannot risk the detrimental impact on economic development, public safety, and quality of life associated with the presence of a clinic at this location.

“I would like to thank Councilwoman Joan Krajewski, State Rep. Kevin Boyle, and State Rep. Michael McGeehan for their leadership on this issue and I will continue working with them to ensure this clinic does not open in Northeast Philadelphia. I would also like to thank the Mayfair and Holmesburg Civic Associations for mobilizing the collective voice of this community.

“With so many concerns and potentially negative ramifications associated with this project, it is critical that we pursue every avenue to prevent it from opening.” 

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