Cedar Rapids Today

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) have introduced the bipartisan Opioid Settlement Accountability Act, a new legislation aimed at ensuring that the funds received by states from opioid settlements are effectively used to combat the epidemic. The bill emphasizes the importance of directing these funds towards treatment, prevention, education, and enforcement efforts.

In a statement, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson highlighted the urgent need for action, stating, "The deadly opioid epidemic continues to devastate families and ravage communities – everyone knows someone who has been impacted by this tragic crisis. To make matters worse, settlement funds dispersed thus far have too often fallen short of addressing the opioid crisis, and guardrails and accountability are needed."

The Opioid Settlement Accountability Act strives to address this issue by establishing clear guidelines for the use of settlement funds. It aims to prevent these funds from being diverted towards unrelated projects, ensuring that they are solely allocated to combatting the opioid crisis. Congresswoman Hinson explained, "The bipartisan Opioid Settlement Accountability Act will ensure settlement funds are used for treatment, prevention, education, and enforcement to help those grappling with addiction and help save lives."

Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur also stressed the importance of proper allocation of settlement funds, particularly in communities heavily affected by the opioid crisis. She stated, "In communities like those in Ohio and Iowa, where the opioids crisis has destroyed so many lives, settlement funds must be allocated to include treatment and social support services that help prevent further opioid misuse and substance abuse. Opioid settlement funds must be used to help fight the ongoing epidemic – not serve as a piggy bank for politicians."

The Opioid Settlement Accountability Act outlines specific areas where the funds should be directed. These include treatment and wrap-around support services for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder, education, prevention, and training programs related to the dangers of opioid abuse, and long-term recovery support services to help individuals reintegrate into society and avoid relapse.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need for programs that assist patients in reducing or quitting their use of opioids while educating healthcare professionals about non-opioid pain management strategies. It also recognizes the crucial role of law enforcement and first responders in tackling the crisis and supports their efforts through dedicated funding.

With the introduction of the Opioid Settlement Accountability Act, Congresswoman Hinson and Congresswoman Kaptur aim to ensure that opioid settlement funds are utilized effectively and responsibly. Their bipartisan effort seeks to provide much-needed support to individuals struggling with addiction, while also working towards preventing further opioid misuse and substance abuse.