DeLauro Statement on Gov. Christie’s Call to Fund the Public Health Emergency Fund to Fight the Opioid Epidemic

WASHINGTON, DC (October 29, 2017) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement in response to Governor Chris Christie—Chairman of President's Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis—calling for additional funding to fight the opioid crisis via the Public Health Emergency Fund.

"I wholeheartedly agree with Governor Christie's call for additional funding to fight the opioid epidemic. We have a moral duty to address this crisis and save as many lives as possible. That is why I am once again urging President Trump and Congressional Republicans to support additional funding for the Public Health Emergency Fund, which was established to respond to crises just like this one."

"The Public Health Emergency Fund currently contains just $57,000—not nearly enough to stem the tide of a crisis that is taking tens of thousands of American lives each year. My bill, the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Act, would provide an additional $5 billion to the Fund. The need for immediate action is clear, the solution is readily available, and there is bipartisan support. All that remains is the willingness to act."