Ohio Secures $100M to Combat Opioid Crisis
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, alongside OhioMHAS Director LeeAnne Cornyn, has announced the allocation of $100 million in federal funds dedicated to fighting opioid use disorder and preventing overdose deaths statewide. This funding, part of the fourth round of State Opioid and Stimulant Response (SOS) grants, comes through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to support critical programs and local organizations that tackle prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and long-term recovery services.
The SOS 4.0 grants are designed to bolster Ohio’s efforts in reducing unintentional overdose deaths and enhancing access to addiction treatment and recovery support services. This funding directly supports Ohio’s county Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) boards and local providers to reinforce existing strategies in combating substance use.
Governor DeWine emphasized that this financial boost is part of Ohio’s comprehensive approach to combating substance abuse and overdose rates. With a significant decline in overdose deaths—outpacing national trends by dropping 9% last year—Ohio remains committed to reducing the devastating impact of opioids and stimulants across communities.
OhioMHAS, collaborating with state agencies and RecoveryOhio, has set key priorities for the grant, including:
Reducing overdose deaths
Expanding access to substance use disorder treatment
Preventing youth substance use
Increasing recovery and harm reduction services
Educating on responsible prescribing practices
According to OhioMHAS Director Cornyn, the funding is a lifeline, especially as fentanyl continues to pose a threat to communities across Ohio. By targeting these funds thoughtfully, OhioMHAS aims to bring lasting change and save lives across the state.
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