Support services for those struggling with substance use disorders in Steuben County will receive a boost with the county Legislature poised to approve Monday some $678,000 in Opioid Settlement Funds for use by four local agencies.
The funds are part of a class action suit filed by the state Attorney General against five major pharmaceutical companies, with additional federal settlements. The federal settlement includes action against Purdue Pharma, considered one of the most egregious offenders. Purdue — which has declared bankruptcy in the face of a $4.5 billion decision, has been shut down and the Sackler family has been banned from ever selling opioids again, according to state Attorney Letitia James’ office.
Those in Steuben County who have suffered at the hands of pharmaceutical malfeasance will receive more support through the county Office of Community Services (OCS), with two additional social workers; peer support through shared services between OCS and Catholic Charities; the Prevention Coalition Opioid Committee; and part-time counseling and support services at the Corning Youth Center.
Other action before county legislators when they meet in regular session at 10 am includes:
- Authorizing a Contingency Fund transfer to the Public Works Highway Budget to cover the increased cost of fuel.
- Accepting $300,000 from Round 3 of the Septic System Replacement Fund Program.
- Authorizing $160,000 in Unrestricted American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds a chiller replacement at the Jail.
** The Steuben County Legislature will meet at 10 am, Monday (Aug. 22) at the Steuben County Annex, 20 E. Morris St., Bath.
The meeting is open to the public and is available via teleconference at https://steubencountynygov.zoom.us/j/89654927716?pwd=RVQ5ZEZheGN4NjVNYStPb0VxWTI2Zz09 Meeting ID: 896 5492 7716; Passcode: Steuben1
