DeLauro Statement on New Haven’s Public Health Emergency

NEW HAVEN, CT (June 24, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding New Haven’s declaration of a public health emergency over recent overdoses.

“We have seen the heartbreaking effects of opioid addiction and overdose in communities across the country, and this emergency in New Haven is a wakeup call: we must take action. Today’s public health emergency declaration is another reminder that the opioid and overdose epidemic requires a response from all levels of government. We must give first responders the support and resources they need, which includes ensuring that they have enough Naloxone to address this crisis.

“While Connecticut allows pharmacists to distribute Naloxone, Connecticut must join other states and make this lifesaving resource more widely available. There are far too many barriers to receiving treatment and Governor Malloy should work with the State Department of Health to address this issue immediately.

“Earlier this year, I introduced the Access to Substance Abuse Treatment Act, which would provide $1 billion a year to support community clinics and expand access to treatment for individuals with a history of substance abuse. Congress should enact this bill and give communities like ours the resources they need to save lives. Until Congress acts, I will continue to work with the local community to help them address this crisis in any way that we can.

“At a time when Connecticut is losing hundreds of citizens every year to overdoses, and thousands more are currently addicted or in recovery, ending this crisis requires all of us in the community to work together. If you know of someone who may be suffering from opioid addiction or using heroin, please take action to get them the help that they need. For more information, please contact the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services here: www.ct.gov/dmhas.”

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