Executive Board (Michigan Opioid Settlement Funds Toolkit, 6/11/2024)

The Michigan Opioid Settlement Funds Toolkit serves as a comprehensive guide for local governments in Michigan, addressing the opioid overdose crisis through the strategic use of settlement funds. A staggering 3,000 individuals succumbed to overdose in 2021, and the toolkit presents a framework for utilizing approximately $776 million earmarked for local governments over 18 years to combat this epidemic. The toolkit encompasses several key sections, beginning with the purpose of guiding effective planning and deployment of the funds, a thorough overview of the opioid settlements, statistical data regarding the crisis, and principles for responsible spending.

In detail, the toolkit distinguishes various principles of expenditure that emphasize collaboration and equity, vital for ensuring that resources are allocated effectively. It delineates necessary steps for local actors, such as stakeholder engagement, data gathering, and the creation of monitoring and accountability measures, allowing jurisdictions to tailor the spending strategies to their specific community needs. The heart of the document offers actionable strategies developed in alignment with both state goals and national best practices, encouraging localities to produce measurable impacts through sustainable and evidence-based interventions.

To ensure that the funds serve their intended purpose, the document also stresses the importance of transparency and community involvement throughout the decision-making process. By employing an equity lens during planning, local governments can better address historical injustices that have exacerbated the opioid crisis, particularly among marginalized communities. Ultimately, this toolkit is designed to empower local officials and organizations to make informed decisions and strategic plans that will create healthier, safer communities in Michigan.

For additional information and resources, including access to local data and the Michigan Association of Counties’ support, refer to the relevant links provided in the toolkit. The document is a vital tool for stakeholders committed to making impactful strides in opioid remediation and proactive community engagement.
https://www.michigan.gov/opioids/category-data
https://nationalopioidsettlement.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Michigan-State-Subdivision-Agreement-1.5.22-with-Signature-and-Exhibit.pdf
https://www.attorneygeneral.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Exhibit-E-Final-Distributor-Settlement-Agreement-8-11-21.pdf
https://www.michigan.gov/ag/initiatives/opioids
https://micounties.org/opioid-settlement-resource-center/
https://www.tribalopioidsettlements.com/
https://mi-suddr.com/
https://tbdsolutions.shinyapps.io/misuddr-app/
https://systemforoverdosesurveillance.com/
https://www.odmap.org:4443/Content/docs/training/general-info/ODMAP-Overview.pdf
https://behaviorhealthjustice.wayne.edu/news/new-data-dashboard-gives-michiganders-access-to-data-in-one-place-for-the-first-time-42141
http://braininjury.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Trauma-Informed-Care-Workforce-Toolkit-v2.pdf