How Wisconsin used the $21M from opioid settlements in 2024

A neon sign in blue and red light on a brick wall background that reads: STOP THE OPIOID CRISIS. (ABEMOS/Shutterstock)

By Good Info News Wire

January 13, 2025

Learn how the Wisconsin DHS allocated $21M from opioid settlements in 2024.

Wisconsin’s fight against the opioid crisis reached a significant milestone as the Department of Health Services (DHS) distributed over $21 million in settlement funds during the final quarter of 2024. This record-breaking quarterly allocation marks the largest distribution since Wisconsin began receiving funds from national pharmaceutical litigation in 2022.

Major funding boost targets opioid crisis

The funds, sourced from settlements with major pharmaceutical companies and pharmacy chains, are being strategically deployed across multiple initiatives throughout the state. The largest portion, $7.7 million, has been designated for building projects, while $6 million is allocated for tribal nation abatement programs.

DHS Director of Substance Use Initiatives Michelle Haese emphasized the strategic approach behind these investments, stating, “This funding continues to embrace evidence-based approaches to meet people where they’re at. We are making intentional investments in supports and services for Wisconsinites, ultimately helping to improve and save the lives of people experiencing substance misuse or substance use disorders.”

Breakdown of fund allocation

The quarterly distribution includes:

$7.7 million for building projects
$6 million for tribal nation abatement
$3 million for law enforcement abatement
$3 million for Naloxone distribution
$2.75 million for residential treatment room and board costs
$1.2 million for substance use disorder treatment platform

Progress in overdose prevention

Preliminary data suggests these efforts are yielding positive results. In 2023, Wisconsin recorded 1,421 opioid overdose deaths, showing a decrease from 1,464 deaths in 2022. This decline aligns with national trends and indicates that community-based initiatives funded by settlement money are having an impact.

Future funding and public input

Wisconsin is set to receive approximately $153 million in additional settlement funds through 2038. DHS has launched a public input survey open until February 28, 2025, seeking residents’ recommendations on how to utilize the state fiscal year 2026 settlement funds effectively.