COLUMBUS — State Representative Terry Johnson (R-McDermott) was recently honored by the Ohio Alliance of Recovery Providers (OARP) as one of the 2015 Legislators of the Year. Johnson was joined in this recognition by Rep. Denise Driehaus, D-Cincinnati, and Senator Dave Burke, R-Marysville.

The Ohio Alliance of Recovery Providers is a coalition of alcohol and drug addiction treatment and prevention providers from all regions in Ohio. The members of the OARP have a similar mission to increase access to treatment and develop a system in Ohio that is focused on recovery.

“It was a great honor to receive this award, to be held in esteem by the Ohio Alliance of Recovery Providers, a group that does so much every day to combat the absolute scourge that is the disease of addiction,” said Johnson. “A great deal of work has been done at all levels, but sadly, so much more remains to be done, and we must continue to work together to accomplish it. We cannot give up; we cannot stop. I am proud to be involved in this fight, and humbly accept this recognition.”

Johnson was honored by the OARP for his commitment to legislation that supports drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Specifically, Johnson has championed legislation that tightens access to addictive opiates and opens up access to treatment. As a physician with expert knowledge on the matter, he has worked tirelessly to educate other policymakers throughout the state on the nature of the drug abuse epidemic. He also works closely with the medical and pharmacy boards and with the major medical associations.