Why Singleton Wants $641M Opioid Settlement To Go To Addiction Services
NJ is set to receive $641M from court settlement with Johnson & Johnson and three pharmaceutical distributors
The drug overdose epidemic isn’t only fueled by criminal networks. Many people became addicted to opioid painkillers prescribed by their doctors. Now, drug companies are paying for their role in fueling the addiction crisis. New Jersey is set to receive $641 million from a $26-billion court settlement with New Jersey-based pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson and three pharmaceutical distributors. The court found they all contributed to the opioid epidemic in the country. Just where will that money go? In the state Legislature, a bill has advanced that would ensure those dollars go directly to addiction services.
In an interview with NJ Spotlight News, sponsor of the bill Sen. Troy Singleton (D-Burlington) discusses its aims.