Federal officials have $500 million in hand to fight the opioid epidemic, and they are moving at a fast pace to get that money to the hardest-hit states, according to the article. They want states to use the money on treatment above other addiction-related initiatives.
The funding is included in the 21st Century Cures Act, which President Barack Obama signed into law Tuesday. The new law seeks to speed up the approval of new drugs, invests additional money in medical research, supports the fight against the nationwide opioid abuse epidemic and expands mental healthcare.
In the report, Michael Botticelli, the White House drug czar, said states will be able to use the funding for prevention and recovery support. However, expanding treatment, particularly in rural areas where access to addiction services is limited, will be the primary focus as federal officials give out the money.
Under President Obama’s original budget request for opioid funding, which closely matches the amount Congress approved, Ohio could be eligible for up to $45 million, West Virginia could see up to $10 million and New Hampshire would be eligible for up to $5 million, according to the report.
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