Good evening,

This week’s updates highlight two critical themes in the opioid response: meeting people where they are and planning for long-term impact. In news outside of the Appalachian region, a recent Psychiatric News article highlights the CA Bridge program, which is helping emergency departments across California become a front door to recovery. By training emergency clinicians to start buprenorphine treatment right in the ED, the program is making it easier for people with opioid use disorder to take that first step toward stability and care. Since launching in 2018, CA Bridge has expanded to 291 hospitals and is already showing meaningful results in improving access to treatment.

We’re also looking ahead to a timely conversation on how communities can build sustainable solutions with opioid settlement dollars. On May 22, Big Cities Health Coalition, Prevention Institute, and their partners will host the second webinar in their 2025 series, focused on planning for long-term impact. You’ll hear from local leaders and national experts who are thinking about how to make the most of these time-limited funds.

Keep reading for the latest news, grant opportunities, and state updates shaping the opioid abatement work in Appalachia.

— The CEG Team

Bring your voice, research, and solutions to the forefront the 2025 Syndemic Summit!

Past Highlights:

• From Silos to Solutions: A Novel Approach to Viral Hepatitis Treatment Among PWUD in Rural Settings
• We’re All in This Together: Creating Public-Private Partnerships to Drive Opioid Abatement
• Empowering Appalachia: Strategies for Economic Development and Job Readiness

Submit your abstract today and be part of the movement driving real change across communities!

Kentucky

Webster County approved $54,500 in settlement funds to support an advocate role within district court, advancing The Beacon of Western Kentucky’s mission to support individuals facing addiction-related legal challenges.

In Carroll County, Attorney General Russell Coleman confirmed that opioid settlement funds can be used for local abatement efforts. Officials are planning for additional guidance during the August 21 fiscal court meeting, where an audit lead from the AG’s office will present.

New York

In Orange County, settlement dollars are funding full scholarships for aspiring Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors (CASACs) through the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Council, helping address workforce shortages in addiction care.

In Elmira, CASA-Trinity’s Adventures in Recovery (AIR) Clubhouse program has received nearly $350,000 in opioid funds to expand peer support, fitness-based recovery, and mutual aid programming. NYS OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham visited the center to highlight its role in providing low-barrier, community-based recovery support.

North Carolina

Brunswick County will host its annual Opioid Settlement Funds Public Meeting on May 28, 2025, inviting residents, municipalities, and community organizations to collaborate on funding priorities in accordance with the NC MOA.

In Forsyth County, commissioners are preparing to approve the next round of opioid settlement allocations — including nearly $500,000 for the Twin City Harm Reduction Collective, as well as funds for MAT providers and peer support programs.

Dare County’s May 5 Board of Commissioners meeting included approval of the FY26 Opioid Settlement Plan, based on a survey of 368 residents in which 93% prioritized treatment and aftercare. County health leaders also reported high rates of “deaths of despair,” highlighting the need for ongoing prevention.

In Orange County, opioid settlement funding will be discussed during budget hearings on May 6, including plans from both the County Commissioners and Carrboro Town Council.

Ohio

Ohio continues to draw national attention for its settlement strategy. KFF Health News’ Aneri Pattani recently provided updates on how counties are allocating funds for treatment, prevention, and oversight. Her remarks on WOSU’s All Sides emphasized the need for transparency and outcome tracking.

Pennsylvania

At a recent forum in Reading, Spotlight PA addressed community questions about the use of opioid settlement funds — including concerns from families, advocates, and people in recovery. Experts from the Partnership to End Addiction and the Center for Children’s Justice weighed in on equitable distribution, public involvement, and state oversight.

West Virginia

In Charleston, just $500,000 of the city’s $5.2 million in settlement funds has been spent. Community members and people in recovery have called for action during a recent town hall, encouraging the city to fund reentry, harm reduction, treatment, and shelter options. City Council is considering the creation of a community panel to guide decisions.

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)

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.

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