Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro says he hopes local leaders will use the state's portion of a $26 billion opioid settlement to target those who need help treating addiction most.
In an interview in the News Radio KDKA studio Wednesday, Shapiro highlighted investment into prevention and treatment efforts will be key.
"I don't want moms crying in my arms anymore," he told the News Radio KDKA Morning Show. "I don't want families suffering. I don't want to see these numbers of opioid-related drug overdose deaths increase as they have during COVID."
The settlement with multiple opioid manufacturers will bring $1 billion to Pennsylvania. Allegheny County is expected to receive $90 million.
"That is all going to have to go to treatment," Shapiro said. "It's all going to be used to help give people who are battling this disease of addiction the help that they need."
One of his objectives includes keeping people in treatment longer, for those who need it. He said insurance rules in Pennsylvania can often prevent people from getting the degree of treatment that would work best.
"We've got to adjust our rules in terms of how insurance works," he said. "Any family who has been dealing with someone who is battling the disease of addiction knows what I'm talking about. They're frustrated because they can't keep their loved one in the treatment that they need."
Shapiro said extending treatment includes funding more beds and staff in facilities, as well as helping patients pay for services like child care while they are in treatment.
State Rep. Jim Gregory (R-Blair) is also working on legislation that would extend the length of treatment for addiction.
