WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s declaration of a nationwide public health emergency to address the opioid epidemic.

“As a doctor who practiced medicine for 25 years, I know that treating pain in patients is one of the most difficult and important things we do. The abuse of opioids has reached epidemic proportions. These medications are useful and powerful, but are too often misused. Some of the people who become addicted to opioids go on to abuse heroin, as well.

“I applaud President Trump for focusing on a problem that’s affecting so many Americans and their families. Tackling this will require all of us – Republicans, Democrats, families, doctors and all levels of government – to work together.”

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