Rep. Elise Stefanik

WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican who represents northern New York, was happy Thursday that President Donald Trump declared the national opioid epidemic a public health emergency.

“Far too many families across our North Country community have seen firsthand the devastating effects of the heroin and opioid epidemic that is sweeping across our nation,” Stefanik, a member of the Bipartisan Heroin Task Force, said in a statement. “Opioid abuse touches our communities, our homes and our families in ways that have grave effects on everyday people and everyday lives. Since I arrived in Congress, I have prioritized working with our state and local officials to combat this tragic epidemic, and I will continue to work on solutions to help families in our district and across our nation. I applaud President Trump for his announcement today and for providing increased resources to fight this devastating problem.”

Trump’s declaration, which will be effective for 90 days and can be renewed, will allow the government to redirect resources, including toward expanded access to medical services in rural areas. It won’t bring new dollars to fight a scourge that kills nearly 100 people a day.