Dear Congressman Ferguson:

This letter is in reference to a series of hearings scheduled in the House Criminal Justice, Drug Policy, and Human Resources Subcommittee to examine addiction, abuse and other problems related to the use of the drug, Oxycontin. Specifically, I would like to recommend that Marianne Skolek of Whitehouse Station be invited to testify as one of these hearings.

Ms. Skolek became involved with the issue of Oxycontin addiction shortly after the loss of her 29 year old daughter, Jill, on April 30, 2002, to an overdose of the powerful drug. At the time of her death, Jill was being prescribed Oxycontin to treat a herniated disk.

Ms. Skolek is an outspoken advocate and has traveled the nation to raise awareness about the problems related to the use and abuse of Oxycontin. I believe her firsthand knowledge of the issue and her tireless efforts in bringing to light the concerns related to Oxycontin use make her an exceptional choice to testify at these hearings.

The House Subcommittee has scheduled the first of these hearings for February 9, 2004, in Orlando, Florida. Subcommittee Chairman Mark Souder has indicated that four additional hearings will be held in Washington, D.C. later next year. I understand that Ms. Skolek has been in contact with your staff regarding her interest in testifying. I hope you will contact Chairman Souder to recommend that Ms. Skolek testify.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

JON S. CORZINE
United States Senator