63 2 minutes read The state of North Carolina is expecting money from opioid lawsuits and settlements that could be routed directly to services for the people who are most impacted by the opioid epidemic. However, there is no clear explanation of how this money will be distributed, and there is no promise that it will be administered in a way that aids in the recovery of those who are struggling with opioids. There are significantly more questions than answers at this time regarding this money and how it will be used. Unfortunately, western North Carolina’s county commissioners and elected officials—who will likely be tasked with planning for opioid settlement funds—often take a draconian approach to substance misuse. State legislators are currently proposing a bill to push back on North Carolina’s advances in harm reduction practices, and to take these life-saving services away from those in need.