The Idaho Behavioral Health Council is currently seeking input from the public on how to allocate opioid settlement funds. The council offers recommendations to Governor Brad Little and the Idaho Legislature on how to distribute the state’s 40% of the opioid settlement funds. With Idaho expecting to receive $2 million annually as part of the settlement, which is 40% of the total $127.8 million in settlement funds, the council aims to provide guidance on how these funds should be utilized.
The remaining portion of Idaho’s opioid settlement funds are allocated towards cities, counties, and health districts. Those interested in proposing spending priorities can submit their suggestions by May 15 via email to [email protected]. The council has a scheduled meeting on June 14 to establish spending priorities, as outlined in a recent news release.
Various examples of how Idaho can utilize these funds are accessible online. An opinion issued last year by the Idaho Attorney General’s Office stipulated that settlement funds designated for recovery centers should be directed towards individuals struggling with opioid-related issues, as reported by the Idaho Capital Sun.