LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Mark Huizenga on Thursday expressed his disappointment that state legislative leaders are reportedly talking about disbanding the Opioid Advisory Commission, which is tasked with overseeing how Michigan’s share of a nationwide opioid settlement is used.
“I proudly sponsored the bill in 2022 creating the Opioid Advisory Commission to provide proper oversight of $1.6 billion in settlement funds and ensure the money is put to smart and efficient use toward combating opioid addiction in Michigan,” said Huizenga, R-Walker. “I am extremely disappointed that there are even discussions about dissolving the commission, and I would fight any effort to remove this important oversight tool.”
A plan by state Democrats to eliminate the commission has been in the works for months, according to an internal email to Michigan Department of Health and Human Services officials obtained by Bridge Michigan through a Freedom of Information Act request.
“The abuse of prescription and illegal opioids has deeply impacted communities across our state and nation, and the people of our state deserve effective management of these historic resources to combat addiction and save lives,” Huizenga said. “This is an issue that was 100% nonpartisan — and my bill passed the Senate without any opposition. If anything, we should be increasing transparency and accountability regarding these funds — not skirting our oversight responsibilities.”
Michigan is set to receive $1.6 billion over 18 years from certain opioid manufacturers, distributors and pharmacies — with half of those funds going to local communities and half being administered by the state.
Public Act 84 of 2022, sponsored by Huizenga, created the Opioid Advisory Commission within the Legislative Council to review local, state, and federal initiatives related to education, prevention, treatment, and services for people and families affected by substance use disorders and make funding recommendations to the Legislature.
The commission must provide a report by March 30 each year that includes a statewide, evidence-based assessment of funding used to address substance use disorders and mental health conditions and a discussion on how to prevent overdoses, health disparities, and youth substance use.
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