Montana’s Slow Utilization of Opioid Settlement Funds Amid Rising Crisis
December 13, 2023
Nearly a year after Montana received millions of dollars from opioid settlement funds, a significant portion of this money remains unspent. In contrast, opioid overdose deaths in the state continue to rise. Montana is among the states, including West Virginia and Hawaii, slowly utilizing these funds.
The funds are part of a national distribution of approximately $50 billion from opioid manufacturers and distributors to address the opioid crisis. While some states like South Carolina and Wisconsin have already allocated millions to various programs, Montana’s approach has been more cautious.
Montana received about $13 million by fall, but the Montana Opioid Abatement Trust, overseeing 70% of these funds, has been slow to operationalize, with only one meeting held to establish its rules. The remaining funds, divided among state and local governments, have yet to be significantly utilized.
Those responsible for distributing the funds emphasize the importance of creating a lasting framework for their use. However, addiction treatment providers in Montana are eager for these funds to address service gaps. For instance, the Rimrock Foundation in Billings has seen a significant increase in clients with opioid dependency since 2021 but faces resource limitations.
The tension in Montana reflects a broader national dilemma: the balance between careful planning and the urgent need to address the rising toll of opioid-related deaths and emergencies. As of 2021, nearly 200 Montanans died from drug overdoses, and emergency responders have reported an increase in opioid-related emergencies.
The slow disbursement of funds is expected in Montana. West Virginia and Hawaii have also been cautious in spending their shares. In contrast, states like Colorado have already allocated millions for various initiatives.
The delay in Montana and other states raises concerns about the immediate needs of communities affected by the opioid crisis, highlighting the challenge of managing such significant funds effectively and promptly.
To read more, click here.
[Source: KFF Health News, December 13th, 2023]
