National Electrical Contractors Association Leaders Attend White House Event to Combat Overdose Crisis
WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, David Long, CEO of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), and Wes Wheeler, Executive Director of Safety at NECA, participated in the White House’s first-ever Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose event. Hosted by the White House Domestic Policy Council (DPC) and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), the event highlighted efforts across all sectors to expand access to opioid overdose reversal medication and reduce preventable drug overdose deaths.
This event brought together nearly 250 leaders and stakeholders from various industries who have committed to supporting the Biden-Harris Administration’s Unity Agenda, which prioritizes addressing the national overdose epidemic. President Biden has made it clear that tackling this public health crisis is one of the administration’s top priorities, and the event served as a platform for industry leaders to discuss how their commitments are helping to save lives.
David Long and Wes Wheeler were invited to share NECA’s role in this important initiative. Through NECA’s continued efforts, the electrical construction industry has taken proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its workers. NECA supports access to lifesaving opioid overdose reversal medication in workplaces and promotes safety measures that extend beyond the jobsite.
“Our industry has not been immune to the devastating effects of the opioid crisis,” said Long. “In fact, it impacts many of our coworkers and our families immensely. It is critical that we, as leaders, take every step necessary to protect our workforce and our communities. Today’s event reaffirms our commitment to saving lives, and we are proud to stand alongside other industries in this fight.”
NECA’s involvement in the White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose reflects the association’s long-standing commitment to safety and well-being. As the leading voice for the electrical construction industry, NECA continues to advocate for policies and practices that safeguard its members and their employees.
