By Paul Feely
New Hampshire Union Leader
MANCHESTER, N.H. — Gov. Maggie Hassan has declined a request from Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas that she declare a public health state of emergency over the heroin epidemic in the Queen City and the rest of the state.
In a letter sent to Gatsas Wednesday, Hassan also states she is unable to use $2.5 million in Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) funds — which must be returned to the federal government if not used by Oct. 1 — to fund a drug court in Manchester.
The request was sent by Gatsas to Hassan last Friday after discussions with Manchester Police Chief Nick Willard, Fire Chief James Burkush and Manchester Health Director Tim Soucy.
Read full story: Governor says no to mayor’s request to declare heroin emergency