Great Lakes Wire

Michigan is projected to see a decline in opioid overdose deaths for the third consecutive year in 2024, according to provisional data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The data indicates a 34% reduction in overdose deaths between 2023 and 2024, translating to about 1,000 fewer deaths. This decline is attributed to strategic investments in prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm-reduction efforts funded by national opioid settlements.

Since 2019, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has secured over $1.6 billion in settlements from companies such as McKinsey & Co., Cardinal Health, McKesson Inc., AmerisourceBergen, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceutical, Allergan Pharmaceutical, CVS, Walmart, and Walgreens. "The progress we are seeing in combatting the opioid epidemic proves what is possible when real investments are made in treatment and prevention," Nessel stated. She emphasized her office's commitment to holding those responsible for the crisis accountable and supporting long-term recovery efforts for Michigan families.

The funds from these settlements are split equally between local governments and the Michigan Opioid Healing and Recovery Fund. These resources have supported strategies identified by the Michigan Opioids Task Force, including distributing over 1.3 million naloxone kits with nearly 34,000 reported uses to reverse overdoses. Funds have also been used for early detection of emerging contaminants in the drug supply and developing data tools for response efforts.

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the State of Michigan, noted that coordinated statewide efforts have led to a significant decline in overdose deaths. "Through the work of the Michigan Opioids Task Force and our local partners," she said, "we’ve distributed more than a million naloxone kits...and helped people access the care and support they need."

Community organizations like Face Addiction Now play a crucial role by expanding outreach and offering peer recovery support. Lauren A. Rousseau of Face Addiction Now highlighted the importance of collaboration between state leaders and grassroots organizations. "Attorney General Dana Nessel’s leadership...allows for much-needed investments," Rousseau commented.

To enhance transparency regarding opioid settlement distributions, a web page was launched by the Attorney General's office in March 2024. This page provides information on settlement payments searchable by settlement type or municipality.

For further details on how funds are being utilized or progress toward goals can be found on public dashboards maintained by the state.