This third annual edition of “A National Roadmap for Opioid Settlement Funds: Supporting Communities & Ending the Overdose Crisis” provides crucial guidance for elected officials, government agencies, and other entities and individuals tasked with the allocation of funds won in settlements with opioid manufacturers and distributors.
2026 National Roadmap Press Release
2026 National Roadmap for Opioid Spending
Key recommendations include:
- Reject Funding Systems and Policies that Advance the Drug War: Do not further criminalization or bolster the criminal legal system, family separation, dangerous “treatment” approaches, unproven prevention programs, or corporate money-grabs masquerading as harm reduction.
- Provide Full Access to Public Health and Harm Reduction Programs: Support for syringe service programs, naloxone access, overdose prevention centers, HIV and hepatitis prevention and treatment, and low-barrier access to medications for opioid use disorder.
- Fund Housing and Supportive Services: Expand housing, outreach, and wraparound support services for individuals affected by drug use and related convictions, ensuring they do not face barriers to essential services. Institute community-based crisis response teams that can respond to emergency calls related to drug use and mental health needs.
- Repair Racial and Economic Harms: Fund programs to address the collateral damage caused by the War on Drugs, including legal aid services, second-chance employment opportunities, recovery-to-work initiatives, and programs to keep families together.