NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Tennessee’s Opioid Abatement Council (OAC) has released its second Announcement of Funding for Community Grants, adding $20 million for approved opioid remediation activities statewide. This funding is part of the proceeds from lawsuits against opioid manufacturers, distributors, and pharmacies, negotiated by the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office.
Legislation mandates that the proceeds are divided, with 15% going to the state, 15% to county governments, and 70% to the Opioid Abatement Trust Fund. The trust fund’s dollars are further split, with 35% going directly to counties for opioid abatement activities, and 65% allocated by the OAC for community grant applications through a competitive process.
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The Announcement of Funding details the application process, including criteria for constructing grant applications, designing programs, building partnerships, and reporting outcomes. Applicants must design programs addressing opioid use disorder using methods from the approved remediation list, which includes Primary Prevention, Harm Reduction, Treatment, Recovery Support, Education/Training, or Research/Evaluation of Abatement Strategy Efficacy.
This funding opportunity follows over $78 million in community grants awarded by the council earlier this year. Initial funds from these grants have been issued, and contracts are in place. The council has also distributed $62 million from the Opioid Abatement Trust Fund to county governments in 2023 and 2024.
“Tennessee’s Opioid Abatement Council continues to deliver much needed help for people across our great state,” said Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti. “The additional $20 million for Community Grants means more support for Tennessee families and communities struggling with the opioid epidemic.”
Steve Loyd, MD, Opioid Abatement Council Chairman, emphasized the council’s commitment to efficiently applying the funds to save lives. Mary Shelton, TN Opioid Abatement Council Executive Director, highlighted the focus on innovative, collaborative responses from grassroots organizations.
Marie Williams, LCSW, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Commissioner, expressed gratitude towards the council and grantees for their efforts in creating pathways to recovery, resilience, and independence for those impacted by the opioid crisis.
Applicants can submit proposals through the council’s website at TN.gov/oac. The web-based portal, customized with the Department of Finance and Administration’s Strategic Technology Solutions, will be open for submissions from November 12 through December 13, 2024.
About the Tennessee Opioid Abatement Council
Our Vision: To allocate funds through the Opioid Trust Fund to help Tennesseans struggling with opioid addiction or chronic pain, bringing hope and restoration through effective and transparent work, and providing prevention and support for families impacted by opioid use disorder.
Source: Read Original Release
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