Updates from the Coalition

Substance use experts assessed 14 policies that could help people start and remain in evidence-based treatment programs. Two of these policies were identified as effective, highly implementable, and equitable. Other policies were identified as potentially counterproductive. States should assess these policies and make changes as needed.

Rhode Island’s Advisory Committee has moved quickly to get an initial round of projects funded with dollars from the opioid litigation. We spoke with one of the experts on the committee to understand their process, how they’re working with municipalities, and what suggestions they have for other states.

Minnesota set up a Council in 2019 to start distributing money to mitigate the opioid epidemic, giving the state a head start on other states. Legislator Dave Baker, who chairs the Council, explains their lessons learned and what they’re hoping to accomplish in the coming years.

How will we know if settlement spending decisions are effective in saving lives and promoting health and wellness for people who use drugs? Data can help paint the picture! Find out more about how to plan now to use data to promote transparency for years to come.

As part of the Principles, state and local governments are encouraged to focus on racial equity. But what does this mean and how can they do it? We break down the barriers of health inequity related to the overdose crisis and offer some considerations to address these issues.

Talk of overdose prevention sites has become more common in media and politics. But what are they exactly, how can they help in the fight against drug overdose, and should localities consider using settlement dollars to fund them? We explore these questions.