Rep. Walberg Issues Statement on President Trump’s Opioid Announcement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 -- Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Mich., issued the following statement after attending President Trump's announcement at the White House in support of declaring the opioid epidemic a public health emergency:

"Heroin and opioid addiction is an epidemic sweeping our country. It is devastating the dreams of people we know and love--friends, family, and neighbors--with no signs of stopping. Tragically, communities across Michigan know this pain too well.

"I commend President Trump for today's declaration and shining a spotlight on the pressing need for bipartisan action. These additional tools will help bolster Michigan's response to the opioid epidemic and offer a helping hand to those in need.

"Tackling this crisis must be a national priority, and I'll continue to work closely with officials at every level to reverse the trends of addiction."

As a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and Bipartisan Heroin Task Force, Congressman Walberg continues to collaborate with stakeholders at the local, state, and federal level to raise awareness and develop best practices to fight heroin and opioid addiction. On Wednesday, during an Energy and Commerce hearing, Walberg questioned officials from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration on federal efforts to combat the opioid crisis.

Last Congress, Congressman Walberg helped champion a number of legislative solutions that were ultimately signed into law, including the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) and the 21st Century Cures Act. Earlier this year, Michigan received more than $16 million in the first round of grant funding from the 21st Century Cures Act. For more information on Walberg's work on this issue, visit walberg.house.gov/heroin.