Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar has announced a new payment of $44.8 million to political subdivisions from the Opioid Abatement Trust Fund. This marks the third disbursement of opioid settlement proceeds aimed at addressing opioid-related issues in local communities. The first transfer occurred in March 2023, amounting to $47.1 million, followed by a $9.2 million distribution in April 2024.

"These funds give local governments the tools they need to support their communities and address the challenges of the opioid crisis head-on," Hegar said. "By directing these resources where they’re needed most, we’re helping cities and counties provide critical services, foster recovery and ensure these settlement fund distribution dollars are used effectively to strengthen local response efforts."

The payments will continue over several years as per statewide opioid litigation settlement agreements. Subdivisions may be required to report their use of funds to the Opioid Abatement Fund Council (OAFC). The available funds for distribution each year depend on varying payments from settlement agreements and court orders, leading to different amounts received by political subdivisions.

In addition to these distributions, the Opioid Abatement Trust Fund will also support OAFC’s distributions to hospital districts and grants for entities working on opioid crisis abatement across Texas.

For further details about OAFC's work, including settlement agreements and related documents, individuals can visit the Comptroller’s website.

Information from this article can be found here.