Illinois is set to receive $760M to fight the opioid epidemic

Posted on July 29, 2022
prescription drugs
Gov. Pritzker signed the order on Friday. (Photo courtesy: Pixabay)

By Blake Haas and IIS

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois is on deck to receive $760 million to fight the opioid epidemic.

The money will come over the next 18 years, resulting in a lawsuit settlement with pharmaceutical distributors and manufacturers.

On Friday, Gov. Pritzker signed an executive order to ensure the funds go towards the state’s efforts to battle opioid abuse.

“This executive order establishes an office of opioid settlement administration and cements a framework for making the best use of these resources,” added Gov. Pritzker.

According to a news release, the money will be used for prevention, intervention, and treatment.

Deaths from opiate-related overdoses continue to rise in Illinois.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].

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