Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-02-20

CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM

TaxesHousing

Context

On 2026-02-20, Representative Robert J. Wittman (R-VA-1) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered housing.

Full Text

CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E143-E144] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM ______ HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10-year anniversary of the Helping Addicts Recover Progressively (HARP) Program in Chesterfield County, Virginia. Launched in 2016, Sheriff Karl Leonard initiated the program after recognizing the alarming rate of overdose deaths in his own county. HARP is a transformative initiative that is making a real difference in the lives of individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Since the program's establishment, HARP has instituted a multi- faceted approach to behavioral modification. Their approach is based [[Page E144]] on a unique combination of tools and techniques that are peer driven, professionally guided, and spiritually based. As news spread of HARP's devotion to both those incarcerated and former program participants, incarcerated individuals from other jail systems began to request transfers to Chesterfield specifically to join the program. HARP's commitment to compassion, innovation, and excellence has strengthened Virginia's First District and improved the lives of countless individuals and families. They place a large emphasis on former participants as well, helping them gain access to recovery housing and allowing them to return to therapy sessions and group meetings. HARP offers a hopeful alternative to tragedy for families affected by addiction. They represent a proactive partnership between local government, health professionals, and community stakeholders dedicated to reducing the devastating impact of substance use disorders. I am proud of the work being done by Sheriff Karl Leonard and all those involved in HARP's implementation. Their efforts are a reminder that compassionate, evidence-based approaches can save lives and build stronger communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in honoring the 10-year anniversary of the Chesterfield County HARP Program as it continues to address critical social and spiritual needs, and strive to help treat not just symptoms, but the root causes of addiction. I wish Sheriff Karl Leonard, along with the entire HARP team, all the best as they continue to serve the community. ____________________

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CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E143-E144] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM ______ HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10-year anniversary of the Helping Addicts Recover Progressively (HARP) Program in Chesterfield County, Virginia. Launched in 2016, Sheriff Karl Leonard initiated the program after recognizing the alarming rate of overdose deaths in his own county. HARP is a transformative initiative that is making a real difference in the lives of individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Since the program's establishment, HARP has instituted a multi- faceted approach to behavioral modification. Their approach is based [[Page E144]] on a unique combination of tools and techniques that are peer driven, professionally guided, and spiritually based. As news spread of HARP's devotion to both those incarcerated and former program participants, incarcerated individuals from other jail systems began to request transfers to Chesterfield specifically to join the program. HARP's commitment to compassion, innovation, and excellence has strengthened Virginia's First District and improved the lives of countless individuals and families. They place a large emphasis on former participants as well, helping them gain access to recovery housing and allowing them to return to therapy sessions and group meetings. HARP offers a hopeful alternative to tragedy for families affected by addiction. They represent a proactive partnership between local government, health professionals, and community stakeholders dedicated to reducing the devastating impact of substance use disorders. I am proud of the work being done by Sheriff Karl Leonard and all those involved in HARP's implementation. Their efforts are a reminder that compassionate, evidence-based approaches can save lives and build stronger communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in honoring the 10-year anniversary of the Chesterfield County HARP Program as it continues to address critical social and spiritual needs, and strive to help treat not just symptoms, but the root causes of addiction. I wish Sheriff Karl Leonard, along with the entire HARP team, all the best as they continue to serve the community. ____________________