– Maine opioid settlement spending assistance
– Maine local resource center for opioid settlement.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : The attorney general’s office is taking a proactive approach to ensuring that opioid settlement funds in Maine are used wisely and effectively. Attorney General Aaron Frey recently announced that nearly $2.5 million will be allocated to the development of a resource center that will offer guidance and assistance to Maine counties, cities, and towns as they decide how to best utilize the approximately $66 million in opioid settlement funds they are set to receive over the next 18 years.
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In an exclusive interview with The Maine Monitor, Frey explained that the contract for the resource center has been awarded to the University of Southern Maine’s Catherine Cutler Institute. The center’s primary goal is to provide support to the state’s subdivisions in planning evidence-based programs, conducting needs assessments, and developing measurable objectives for their spending. The research and data generated by the center will be made publicly available in an effort to promote transparency and help communities make informed decisions.
The funding for the resource center and the settlement funds going to the direct share subdivisions are a result of settlements reached with several pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, and retailers who have been accused of fueling the opioid epidemic. Maine expects to receive around $230 million in total over 18 years, with the potential for that amount to increase as pending bankruptcy cases are finalized.
However, the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision blocking Purdue Pharma’s bankruptcy plan, which would have added billions of dollars to the settlements nationwide, has caused delays in the distribution of funds. Frey remains committed to holding accountable those responsible for the opioid crisis, including the Sackler family, and ensuring that resources are available to address the harm caused by the epidemic.
The settlement agreements specify that the funds must be used for opioid abatement programs, with a focus on evidence-based approaches that supplement existing funding. The resource center will play a crucial role in helping subdivisions navigate this complex process and avoid questionable spending decisions that may not effectively address the crisis.
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In light of concerns raised by experts and advocates about how some subdivisions have already begun spending their settlement funds, Frey emphasized the importance of using the money in a productive and impactful way. The resource center will provide valuable guidance and support to ensure that communities have the tools and information they need to make the most of the funds available to them.
By promoting transparency and providing access to research and data, the resource center aims to empower Maine counties, cities, and towns to make informed decisions that will have a lasting impact on combating the opioid epidemic. With careful planning and strategic investments, these communities can work towards healing and recovery for those affected by this devastating crisis..
Maine opioid settlement resource center
Local opioid spending aid in Maine.
