$300M In Opioid Settlement To Be Paid To NJ, Input Sought On Funds Use

NEW JERSEY — In an effort to combat the opioid overdose epidemic that has claimed the lives of over 14,600 New Jerseyans in the past five years alone, the state government has created an online portal and an advisory committee to receive input on the best public purpose uses of $300 million in opioid settlement funds that the state is receiving.

New Jersey and counties and municipalities throughout the state are obtaining a total of $641 million through settlements reached in 2021 with opioid distributors; the funds will be split between state and local governments over the next two decades, according to the state government website.

“With the funds our state will receive through these settlement agreements, we have a meaningful opportunity to improve and save the lives of countless New Jerseyans," Gov. Phil Murphy said in the announcement. "As we determine the best use of these funds to help combat the opioid crisis here in New Jersey, my administration wants to hear from members of the public."

Murphy added that the online portal and advisory council will provide insight into how the state can use the funds "to further bolster and expand support for families and communities impacted by the crisis."

To align with the terms of the national settlements, the funding must go toward goals, such as enhancing prevention, treatment, peer recovery supports and harm reduction services, among others, the announcement said.

Residents may submit proposals through the online portal, or by mail, through Oct. 31. Identifying information, such as the person's name and email, is optional.

An Opioid Recovery and Remediation Advisory Council, chaired by state Department of Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman comprised of key stakeholders, will also make recommendations regarding effective prioritization of funds, the announcement said.

“Today, we remember those tragically lost to overdose and reaffirm our commitment to ending this crisis,” Adelman said.