Last Thursday, President Donald Trump declared the opioid epidemic a national public health emergency. The declaration will prioritize certain actions and plans aimed at taking steps to reduce the epidemic. According to the Center for Disease Control, the opioid epidemic claims the lives of nearly 150 Americans every day.

U.S. Congressman David Young, who represents Iowa’s Third Congressional District, responded to Trump’s declaration. “It’s killing people we know. It’s an epidemic. It’s a national emergency. We need to look at this from a control angle and also a rehabilitation angle.”

Young also mentioned the City of Bridgewater’s fight to take back their community from the effects of opioid and other drug related concerns. The non-profit Take Back Bridgewater, Iowa is committed to work with citizens to address criminal activity and improve the quality of life in and around the community.