Cedar Rapids Today

The opioid epidemic has had devastating effects on individuals across the nation, regardless of their background. With fentanyl becoming the leading cause of death for young Americans, urgent action is needed to address this crisis. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson has been listening to the heart-wrenching stories of families in Eastern Iowa who have lost loved ones to overdose. She understands the fear of parents who worry about the infiltration of synthetic opioids in their communities and schools.

As over $55 billion in settlement funds are being allocated to states, counties, and municipalities to combat this catastrophe, it is crucial to ensure that these funds are used appropriately. Unfortunately, there have already been cases where the funds have been misallocated. In Greene County, Tennessee, for example, $2.4 million was used to pay off the county's debt, and $50,000 was spent on a "litter crew vehicle." This misallocation of funds is reminiscent of the mishandling of tobacco settlements in the 1990s, where funds meant for anti-smoking initiatives were diverted for other purposes.

Congresswoman Hinson believes that every dime of the opioid settlement funds must be dedicated to prevention efforts, supporting those battling addiction, and aiding anti-narcotic enforcement. She highlights the Iowa Opioid Memorandum of Understanding as an example of responsible allocation. The state legislature in Iowa has mandated that the settlement funds be used for opioid abatement activities. Congresswoman Hinson aims to establish this approach as the national standard, to prevent the misuse of funds by politicians in other states for unrelated activities.

To ensure accountability and prevent the misallocation of funds, Congresswoman Hinson has introduced the Opioid Settlement Accountability Act in collaboration with Representative Marcy Kaptur. This bipartisan initiative seeks to safeguard the funds and ensure that they are used appropriately. The bill specifies that the funds should be used for opioid treatment, education on the dangers of opioid abuse, long-term recovery services, and support for law enforcement and first responders.

Congresswoman Hinson is committed to working across the aisle to address the opioid epidemic and save lives. She believes that every effort must be made to curb the crisis, provide treatment for those suffering from addiction, and support the individuals on the frontlines battling this epidemic. With the Opioid Settlement Accountability Act, Congresswoman Hinson aims to prevent the repetition of past mistakes and ensure that not a single dime of the settlement funds is wasted.