Conway to announce funding to combat heroin overdose deaths

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Democratic candidate for governor Jack Conway will announce money for a project to reduce the number of heroin overdose deaths on Tuesday as lawmakers return to Frankfort for the start of the 2015 legislative session.

A news release says Conway will join Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear and first lady Jane Beshear at a news conference in the capitol at 2 p.m. EST.

Heroin overdose deaths have increased tenfold since 2011. Republican state Sen. Chris McDaniel, who is the running mate of Republican gubernatorial candidate James Comer, has filed a bill in the state Senate to address heroin overdose deaths. Lawmakers from both political parties say it is a priority to pass legislation this year combating heroin use.

©2015 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.