Washington, D.C. — Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after the Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing on the federal response to the opioid crisis.

“The opioid epidemic is a heartbreaking problem gripping our nation. No community is immune from the effects of this crisis. Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee heard from key agency officials on the federal government’s response to the opioid epidemic. I am appreciative to the witnesses, Mr. Doherty, Dr. Gottlieb, Dr. McCance-Katz, Dr. Schuchat, and Dr. Volkow, for testifying on their agencies’ progress on stemming opioid abuse and addiction.

“As Congress continues to consider ways to curtail the opioid crisis, we must work alongside physicians, other health care providers, and community leaders to find lasting solutions. Too many American families across the country, including at home in North Texas, have been devastated by this epidemic. This issue, while not new to the Committee, must end now. Today’s hearing is a good step in our fight against the opioid crisis, and we will continue our momentum in combating this epidemic.”