While I appreciate and am deeply concerned re: the opioid crisis in the US, I completely agree with the others that have comment (and the many that are thinking the same thing and not posted), the veterinary community is NOT the cause of this crisis and this definitely seems like a knee jerk reaction.  

Regulation and oversight is necessary for those prescribing and dispensing controlled substances.  And if/when the human medical field back tracks on the over prescribing of opioids in particularly, veterinary medicine may become more vulnerable for those with addictions to seek out these medication (and some may already though currently low risk).  

Having a currently veterinary client patietn relationship is standard practice to continue the authorization of any medication in veterinary medicine and this should be continued and potentially more defined for those cases that require a controlled substance chronically. 

Additionally, documenting that risks associated with these medications and proper handling, storage and disposal is reasonable and a way the veterianary community may participate in health education for the pet owning community.  

Pump the brakes and revise the current proposal to a be more reasonable and not overreaching.