Good afternoon,

This week brings a complex picture of the nation’s opioid crisis, combining historic progress with clear reminders that there is still much work to be done.

According to new CDC data, overdose deaths fell by 27% in 2024. This marks the steepest one-year drop ever recorded. Communities across the country are beginning to see the impact of expanded access to naloxone, increased treatment availability, and early investments of opioid settlement funds. These are hopeful signs that efforts at every level are making a real difference.

At the same time, new research suggests that the crisis may be even more widespread than we thought. A RAND and USC study found that illicit opioid use, including fentanyl, may be up to 20 times higher than previously estimated. Nearly one in ten U.S. adults surveyed reported using illicit opioids in the past year, far exceeding current government data. The researchers emphasize the need for faster, more accurate tracking to better understand and respond to emerging trends.

The message is clear: we are making progress, but there are still critical blind spots. Sustained investments in prevention, harm reduction, and real-time data are essential to maintain momentum and effectively address the evolving landscape.

Keep reading for updates from across the Appalachian region, including state news, grant opportunities, and upcoming public meetings.

–The CEG Team

Georgia

Cobb County is disbursing $7.9 million in opioid settlement funds to nonprofits working in harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and prevention. Applications are open through July 11.

The Pathways Center expanded services in Troup County with support from the Georgia Opioid Abatement Trust. The expanded clinic will provide MAT, counseling, case management, and social services in one of the state’s hardest-hit rural areas.

Kentucky

Counties are leveraging opioid funds to support harm reduction and criminal justice system interventions. Boyd and Hardin Counties presented at the May KACo webinar, highlighting jail-based MAT and court-linked treatment coordination.

Breckinridge County received over $100,000 for a harm reduction program, including a vending machine and seven Narcan boxes.

Statewide, overdose deaths dropped for a third year, down 30.2% in 2024. Advocates attribute progress to sustained investments in Narcan distribution and harm reduction.

Maryland

In Baltimore, Mayor Brandon Scott’s budget allocates nearly $107 million from opioid settlements—but frontline groups voiced frustration over limited input from the city’s new Opioid Restitution Advisory Board. Despite promises of transparency, only $2 million remains under board discretion. Harm reduction advocates are urging faster, more strategic investments that prioritize community-led responses.

New York

New York has invested nearly $400 million in opioid settlement funds, including over $800,000 to expand St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment and Recovery Center in Saranac Lake. The facility now offers discreet, walk-in outpatient services and a methadone clinic, aiming to meet people where they are and reduce overdose deaths. Officials report a 30% decline in overdose deaths statewide over the past year.

North Carolina

Greene County approved $96,022 from its opioid allocation for a new Community Recovery Division, in partnership with Lenoir County. Funds will support staffing for planning, clinical treatment, recovery services, and early intervention.

Wilkes County earmarked $1.76 million for EMS, jails, schools, and nonprofits including Wilkes Recovery Revolution and Hospitality House.

In Madison County, Governor Josh Stein highlighted investments in youth mental health, syringe services, and a new Fentanyl Control Unit.

Ohio

The Ohio House passed legislation limiting local governments’ ability to sue companies under public nuisance laws—a move that could shield opioid manufacturers from future lawsuits.

Mahoning County plans to allocate $464,000 to a new First Responder Wellness Center offering trauma-informed support for EMS, fire, and police personnel. The OneOhio Recovery Foundation has received more than $400 million, with another $1.27 billion expected.

Pennsylvania

The Shapiro Administration is expanding a student loan repayment program for substance use disorder (SUD) professionals, partially funded through opioid settlements.

In Philadelphia, the state Opioid Misuse and Addiction Abatement Trust ruled that $7.5 million used for Kensington neighborhood revitalization was noncompliant with settlement spending guidelines. The funds supported housing, parks, and school improvements via local nonprofits, but the Trust argues opioid dollars must target direct treatment and prevention. The city may appeal the decision, but future allocations are now at risk.

In Luzerne County, $359,000 in new grants will support a homeless day shelter, EMS opioid tracking systems, and employment support for women in recovery. DDAP Secretary Davis-Jones highlighted the critical need for rural workforce investment during a visit to Lycoming County.

Tennessee

Sumner County’s Opioid Abatement Committee approved $500,000 for jail mail scanners to intercept drug-laced correspondence and is considering additional investments in infrastructure and behavioral health partnerships. Officials emphasized the importance of pairing technology with community-based services for effective prevention.

Virginia

In Covington, Alleghany Highlands Community Services launched a year-long renovation project to expand behavioral health infrastructure, including a new peer center, therapy rooms, and Recovery Court offices. The $8 million project is funded by the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority.

In Fairfax County, youth MAT services were expanded to a second location, serving 150 youth annually with integrated treatment and recovery support.

West Virginia

The WV Supreme Court declined to answer a key question in Cabell and Huntington’s appeal over public nuisance claims against opioid distributors. The decision could affect how localities pursue future lawsuits.

Moundsville launched a local grant program with $302,918 in settlement funds, inviting agencies to propose community-driven projects and sustainability plans. Funds will also support a peer recovery specialist embedded in public safety operations.

Yancey County, NC has opened its FY 2025–2026 Opioid Settlement Grant RFP, now accepting applications from local partners — application info. (DUE 6/13)

Cumberland County, NC (RFP) to Address Opioid Crisis— application info. (DUE 5/30)

Chatham County, NC (RFP) to Address Opioid Crisis— application info. (DUE 5/30)

Cobb County, GA (RFP) to Address Opioid Crisis— application info. (DUE 7/11)

New York – OASAS continues to fund workforce development efforts, including scholarship programs for CASAC training.

• Additional RFPs and funding streams may be available through county-specific portals or state MOA advisory boards.

City of Moundsville, WV invites organizations to apply for opioid settlement funds— application info.

City of Fairmont, WV invites organizations to apply for opioid settlement funds. A 20% match will be required for all projects.— application info.

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