WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued the below statement following President Trump’s action to declare the opioid epidemic a nationwide public health emergency. Senator Capito joined the president at the White House for the announcement.
“West Virginia has suffered so much because of the opioid epidemic. We have lost friends, neighbors and family members, and we have seen entire communities torn apart by its devastating consequences. Today, the president took a significant step forward in helping us fight this growing epidemic by declaring it a national public health emergency.
“This declaration makes fighting the opioid epidemic a true national priority and draws attention to the urgency of this crisis. The declaration also makes it easier for the federal government to respond and will help improve and expand access to services for individuals struggling with addiction.
“Of course, the president’s action is just part of what must be a larger and broader national effort. Communities in West Virginia and across the country need more resources for recovery, treatment and enforcement, and it’s essential that we do what we can to provide the support they need. As a leader on the Appropriations Committee, I have worked hard to secure funding to fight the opioid epidemic on all fronts, and I will continue pushing and advocating for much-needed resources.”
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