Gov. Cuomo signs law investing $200M+ to fight New York opioid epidemic

Brian Zimmerman -

Democratic New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill Wednesday dedicating $213 million in funds to curb the rising rates of opioid and heroin abuse across the state.

The funds are a part of the state's fiscal year 2018 budget and represent a 100 percent increase in funds allocated to address the opioid epidemic, compared to the funds allotted during fiscal year 2011. The money will increase access to addiction treatment services, expand community prevention strategies and reduce the over-prescription of opioid painkillers in the state.

"We have made significant progress in combatting the devastating heroin and opioid epidemic in New York, but this crisis continues to plague our communities and we must do everything in our power to combat each facet of this complex health emergency," said Gov. Cuomo. "This comprehensive investment addresses each component of heroin and opioid addiction — prevention, treatment and recovery — to help individuals and families break this cycle of misery, save lives and create a stronger, healthier state for all."

Between 2010 and 2015, the number of overall opioid deaths in New York doubled. The number of heroin-related overdose deaths increased fivefold during the same period.

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