Pumped Up or Puffed Up?

Statement

Pumped Up or Puffed Up?

Most days on C-Span (the cable television network dedicated to covering Congress), you would expect to see Members of Congress or Administration officials. You would not expect to see famous athletes.

Constituents have asked me about the time and attention of Congress has spent on the illegal use of drugs such as steroids and Human Growth Hormone (HGH). Hearings on this matter have caused a media frenzy as top athletes appeared in hearing rooms usually occupied by government officials.

Much of the hubbub surrounding the steroids hearings was not on the widespread nature of illegal performance enhancers or HGH usage - which is and should be a serious concern for everyone.

Instead, much of the focus of the media and House Members themselves was on one player and his accusers.

It is obvious illegal steroid use is a problem. It ravages bodies and destroys lives. What is not so obvious is the role Congress has in determining whether or not those who use steroids should be eligible for the Hall of Fame.

While some have leveled criticism on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee - the committee most linked to the steroid hearings - the fact is the committee is charged as the "principal investigative committee of the House of Representatives."

It has the authority to conduct hearings on any subject which falls under the jurisdiction of Congress, which would include federally-controlled substances - and therefore performance-enhancing drugs such as steroids.

So, while this subject matter is within the Committee's jurisdiction, the intent of the hearings also should be taken into account.

Certainly, steroid abuse is a problem. And I agree with my colleagues who point out this is more than just a professional sports issue, as it permeates down to college and into high school, and even younger athletes.

When young players who idolize professional athletes choose to turn to performance-enhancing drugs such as steroids, HGH or other substances, they open themselves to a host of health issues.

Educating our young people about the dangers of illegally abusing performance-enhancing drugs should be a priority.

Steroids are a serious problem - so are other drugs such as methamphetamine, marijuana and the abuse of prescription drugs. These all have serious repercussions.

Illegal drug use should never be rationalized or romanticized. Those who partake - whether for casual or recreational usage, or to increase strength and athletic ability, or to satisfy an addiction - should never, never be glorified.

If these congressional hearings are able to open eyes, then Congress is accomplishing a significant step towards keeping young people away from steroids.

Our focus should be on keeping our citizens safe. While the allure of spotlights and intense media attention can be tempting, we cannot let our hearing rooms become media circuses or photo opportunities.

Perhaps, Congress should be just as mindful of plagues like meth addiction, which may not garner headlines on ESPN, but certainly lead to obituaries in local newspapers.

Source