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Commissioner Keigher - DHHS - Health Division - To Approve a Resolution to Direct the Expenditure of Opioid Settlement Funds and Appropriate $752,432.00 (Year 1: $372,557.00, Year 2: $379,875.00, Total: $752,432.00)
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STAFF CONTACT
Abigail Newton - Assistant Public Health Director - DHHS - Public Health Division - 704-853-5103
BUDGET IMPACT
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Increase revenue and expenses in the Opioid Settlement Funds by $752,432.00. No additional County funds.
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BACKGROUND
The State of NC joined in the national litigation against pharmaceutical supply chain participants who engaged in the manufacture, marketing, promotion, distribution, or dispensing of opioid medications that have harmed the public. On June 8, 2021, the Board of Commissioners approved the Memorandum of Agreement Between the State of North Carolina and Local Governments on Proceeds Relating to the Settlement of Opioid Litigation (Res 2021-172) joining in the national litigation. Gaston County was awarded $ 40,520,354.00 in settlement funds to be received over a period of 18 years. To date the County has received $11,845,106.51 in settlement funds.
This Board Action, if approved, appropriates $752,432.00 in Opioid Settlement Funds for the continuation of existing Recovery Support Services, specifically for the GEMS Recovery Transportation Program. These funds will allow for transportation to be provided for individuals without transportation to addiction treatment, harm reduction services, other recovery support services, primary healthcare, and other services needed to support their recovery, health, and well-being. The program will also help participants navigate and reduce barriers to consistent care. The program will partner with MAT providers to ensure participants have access to ongoing care without interruption.
Year 1 (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026): $372,557.00
Year 2 (July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027): $379,875.00
POLICY IMPACT
N/A
ATTACHMENTS
Spending Authorization Resolution and Budget Change Request (BCR)