The state board announced a plan to invest funds Alabama will receive from the national opioid settlement, with an emphasis on treatment, recovery and prevention.

The Alabama Opioid Settlement Fund Oversight Committee, chaired by Rep. Rex Reynolds and Sen. Garlan Gudger, held four hearings following the 2023 Regular Session. During the 2024 Regular Session, the committee heard from 44 agencies and organizations that provide services related to the prevention, treatment and recovery of people struggling with opioid addiction in Alabama.

Following Tuesday's announcement, Rep. Reynolds (R-Huntsville) introduced HB479, a supplemental $30 million budget bill that would fund the statewide investment plan.

“The devastating impact of the opioid epidemic on our state becomes more clear with each passing day, and it is our responsibility as lawmakers to do all we can to fight this deadly disease,” Reynolds said. “Alabama's allocation of opioid settlement funds is an opportunity to fight addiction, provide additional resources for recovery, and save lives.”

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“I commend committee members for working diligently to develop a coordinated plan that will have no doubt have a long-lasting positive impact on our state.”

The statewide investment plan outlines reduction strategies that are eligible to receive funding through direct supplemental appropriations from the Alabama Legislature or through internal grant processes, including the Department of Mental Health, Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Health.

“The Committee worked with many stakeholders to identify areas of need and develop a strategy to address them,” said Rep. Gudger (R-Cullman). “From education initiatives aimed at preventing addiction to expanding access to rehabilitation services, the Committee’s investment plan will ensure Alabama gets the most out of the settlement funds.”

Alabama Department of Mental Health Commissioner Kim Boswell praised the committee's work and reiterated the importance of connecting people in crisis with effective treatment.

“The Opioid Settlement Fund Oversight Committee has delivered on its promise to distribute settlement funds effectively,” Boswell said. “The plan prioritizes prevention, treatment and recovery efforts, ensuring more Alabamians have access to essential, life-saving services.”

“With that being said, if you or a loved one is in need of emergency assistance, please call or text 988, Alabama's access point for mental health and substance use services.”

This story first 256 today.