Assemblyman Chris Tague (R,C,I-Schoharie) is celebrating the signing of a bill (A.6395B) he co-sponsored requiring funds from opioid settlements to be used for the development of new services and supports for those struggling with addiction.

Tague has spoken out at several rallies about the importance of ensuring money acquired from lawsuits against opioid manufacturers goes strictly toward helping those suffering with their addiction and is kept out of the state’s general fund.

“Seeing this bill become law is relieving, because in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic the battle with addiction has become direr than ever,” said Tague. “People living with addiction were cut off from their support networks throughout much of the pandemic, making it even more difficult for them to avoid relapsing or otherwise worsening their health. Giving money awarded from drug companies to those impacted by their actions is just common sense.