Congressman Todd Rokita released the following statement praising President Trump for declaring the opioid epidemic a public health emergency:
"With almost 100 Americans dying every single day because of opioid overdoses, this is clearly a public health emergency. The opioid epidemic is something I care deeply about because it has destroyed far too many lives. I have heard from several families who have lost loved ones to opioids, I've heard from law enforcement who have seen this issue first hand, I've visited Austin, Indiana the epicenter of the ongoing predicament, and I have talked with leaders in our communities about the ongoing abuse. Hoosiers know this is a crisis and I am going to work with President Trump to continue fighting for ways to stop this epidemic."
Last year, Congress passed legislation to help address the opioid epidemic. This legislation provided needed funding to help states educate communities and emergency responders on the issue. As a result, earlier this year additional funding went to states to help end this epidemic. Rokita hosted a Women's Conference earlier this year to discuss major issue facing Hoosiers. Opioids was a major area of discussion. This epidemic is also going to be discussed at the Congressman's School Safety Summit which is being held on Friday, October 27th.