Some New York lawmakers say they’re open to using opioid settlement funds to cover looming federal cuts to addiction services, while others warn it would violate the fund’s purpose, according to Spectrum News.
Assemblymembers Phil Steck and Amy Paulin say keeping treatment programs running may justify tapping the fund. But Senate leaders, including Sen. Nathalia Fernandez, oppose the move and want new revenue instead — like an alcohol tax or redirecting opioid excise taxes.
The debate comes as Gov. Kathy Hochul prepares her next budget, with $310 million still sitting in the opioid fund and overdose deaths declining but still high in vulnerable communities.
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