Morning Breakouts

Latest KFF Health News Stories

DEA’s Failed Attempt To Hold Drugmaker Accountable For Opioid Crisis Shows Just How Difficult It Is

Morning Briefing

In 2011, the agency targeted Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals for its opioid distribution practices. But six years later, after four investigations that spanned five states, the government has taken no legal action against the company. Meanwhile, the White House drug czar details information about fentanyl to lawmakers, and states mull mandatory opioid education classes in public schools.

Republicans Now Own Health Care — And All Its Political Ramifications

Morning Briefing

Long used as a political weapon against Democrats, health care now stands to cast a shadow on Republican lawmakers’ 2018 campaigns. “We have the House, the Senate, the White House,” said David Winston, a GOP strategist who advises congressional leaders. “People are going to expect points on the board.” Meanwhile, House Speaker Paul Ryan’s approval ratings among staffers drops to its lowest point.