It will take more than words to fight worst drug crisis in American history

President Trump is right when he calls the opioid epidemic the worst drug crisis in American history. It is important that the highest level of federal government recognize the death and destruction this epidemic is causing, in Wisconsin, and across the country. But the fight against this crisis will take more than words. Unfortunately, Trump’s declaration does not come with any additional federal money to fight this public health crisis. This fight will require additional resources to be effective. Already much work is being done on many fronts to stop opioid addiction. Governor Walker announced an increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates for substance abuse providers in Wisconsin. But the reality is, opioids are killing at a rapidly increasing rate, claiming a life every sixteen minutes in this country. Our jails are filled with addicts who turn to crime to support their addiction. Drug manufacturers should be held responsible for their role in this crisis, and doing so could provide the money needed to further this fight. It is good that as a country we are finally recognizing the depths of this epidemic, but still much more needs to be done.