Middlesex Co. Opens Public Comment Period For Opioid Epidemic Funding

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – Middlesex County officials are seeking public input on how to spend opioid settlement funds as the county works to combat the ongoing overdose epidemic.

Beginning Sunday, Aug. 31 – International Overdose Awareness Day – residents can submit suggestions for using settlement money received from lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies that contributed to the nation's opioid crisis. The public input period runs through Friday, Oct. 31.

County officials are encouraging residents to visit middlesexcountynj.gov/opioidinput to share their ideas on how the funds should be allocated. The money must be used for initiatives that help individuals and communities through treatment, prevention, harm reduction, workforce development, and education programs.

The settlement funds come from legal action between the federal government and pharmaceutical companies held responsible for fueling the opioid crisis that has devastated communities nationwide. States and local governments across the country received portions of the settlement money specifically designated for addressing the epidemic's impact.

Middlesex County plans to periodically reopen the public input process in the future, but officials are urging residents to participate in the current comment period to ensure their voices are heard in determining how these crucial funds will be used.

The county's emphasis on public engagement reflects recognition that effective solutions to the opioid crisis require community involvement and input from those most affected by the epidemic.

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