Governor Kathy Hochul has announced significant strides in New York’s fight against the opioid epidemic, positioning the state as a national frontrunner in effectively deploying opioid settlement funds to affected communities.
New York has outpaced other states in allocating all $192 million from the first year of opioid settlement funds by August 2023. These funds are dedicated to enhancing a broad spectrum of services, including prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery, across the state.
In response to the alarming statistics of over 6,300 overdose deaths in 2022, the state has expanded and improved access to personalized addiction services. Key initiatives include the launch of Mobile Medication Units (MMUs) to provide medication and testing services in communities, and the distribution of millions of fentanyl and xylazine test strips statewide.
The state has also supported workforce development in addiction services with substantial investments, including $13 million for Addiction Studies education and $7.8 million for a fellowship program in medical schools. New York Attorney General Letitia James, State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, and other officials have praised these efforts for their comprehensive approach to addressing the opioid crisis.
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