Avenues Recovery, a drug and alcohol rehab center in Maryland, is pleased to share that Baltimore is taking a significant step toward combating the ongoing opioid crisis by unveiling a plan to distribute $252.5 million obtained from settlements with pharmacies and drug companies. These funds, secured through lawsuits addressing the companies' roles in the crisis, will be directed towards harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and educational initiatives.
According to Wtop news, Mayor Brandon Scott has signed an executive order establishing an advisory board responsible for overseeing the allocation of these funds. The board will include city residents with personal experience, social workers, public health advisors, and local government representatives, ensuring that the funds are used effectively to support those most affected. The city is also engaging the community directly through town halls, focus groups, and online surveys to gather input from residents on how the money should be spent.
The plan includes significant financial commitments to both government and community-based programs. For example, $20 million will go to the Baltimore City Health Department to strengthen its ongoing efforts against the opioid crisis. Additionally, $42 million has already been distributed to local organizations dedicated to fighting substance use disorders. These funds will support a variety of services, including harm reduction, treatment, recovery programs, and educational efforts aimed at preventing new cases of opioid addiction.
Mayor Scott emphasized that while these funds cannot undo the damage already done or bring back those lost to overdoses, they are crucial for preventing further loss of life and repairing the harm inflicted on the community. His announcement coincided with Baltimore’s recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, a day dedicated to remembering those lost to overdose and raising awareness about the ongoing crisis.
Scott also highlighted the disproportionate impact of the opioid epidemic on Baltimore, noting that the city, which makes up just 9% of Maryland’s population, accounted for 44% of the state’s overdose deaths in the first seven months of 2024. He attributed this disparity to longstanding issues of systemic racism and disinvestment that have plagued the city for decades.
Baltimore’s decision to pursue its own lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies, rather than joining broader settlements, has so far been successful. The city has recovered more from its settlements than it would have under global agreements. With ongoing litigation against five more drug companies, Scott expressed confidence in securing further compensation. The next trial is scheduled for September 16th, and the outcome could bring additional funds to the city’s opioid restitution efforts.
To ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution of these funds, the executive order also establishes the Baltimore City Opioid Restitution Fund and creates roles within the mayor’s office dedicated to managing the response to the opioid crisis. The city is also required to develop a comprehensive overdose reduction strategy every two years, with mandatory community input to guide the process.
Baltimore’s plan to use its opioid settlement funds represents a critical opportunity to address one of the most pressing public health crises in the city’s history. By involving the community in decision-making and focusing on a comprehensive approach, the city aims to save lives, heal communities, and pave the way for a healthier future.
If you or your loved one are struggling with addiction, reach out to Avenues Recovery today. Our experienced and compassionate staff will help you recover with respect and dignity.