Clarifies that certain provisions related to statewide opioid settlement agreements shall cover settlements and releases related to any entities involved in the prescription drug marketing, supply and payment chain that may have contributed to the opioid epidemic through illegal conduct.
Impact
The legislation is poised to significantly influence state laws by providing more structured guidelines on how opioid settlement agreements are handled. With the bill stipulating that copies of these agreements must be maintained by the attorney general and made available for inspection, it is designed to enhance transparency in such settlements. The provisions included in the bill also limit the authority of government entities to pursue lawsuits against parties already released in prior agreements, which could reshape the legal environment around opioid litigation in New York.
Summary
Bill A08459 seeks to amend the mental hygiene law in New York regarding statewide opioid settlement agreements. Specifically, it clarifies that any settlements are to encompass all entities involved in the marketing, supply, and payment chains of prescription drugs that may have contributed to the opioid crisis through illegal conduct. This bill reflects a broader commitment to address issues surrounding opioid abuse and the legal implications for those entities potentially found liable for contributing to this public health crisis.
Contention
Notably, the contention surrounding Bill A08459 revolves around the balance between holding entities accountable for their roles in the opioid epidemic while also managing the potential impact on state resources and priorities. Critics may argue that limiting the ability of government entities to bring forth lawsuits could inhibit effective accountability and recovery from damages caused by opioid misuse. Conversely, supporters of the bill may argue that it creates a more comprehensive framework for how such settlements are conducted, potentially leading to more effective use of settlement funds for public health initiatives.
Same As
Clarifies that certain provisions related to statewide opioid settlement agreements shall cover settlements and releases related to any entities involved in the prescription drug marketing, supply and payment chain that may have contributed to the opioid epidemic through illegal conduct.
Clarifies that certain provisions related to statewide opioid settlement agreements shall cover settlements and releases related to any entities involved in the prescription drug marketing, supply and payment chain that may have contributed to the opioid epidemic through illegal conduct.
Includes interest earned on the monies obtained by the state through the statewide opioid settlement agreement, in the opioid settlement fund; requires any New York subdivision that receives funds pursuant to an opioid settlement agreement to spend interest earned on such funds on approved uses.
Includes interest earned on the monies obtained by the state through the statewide opioid settlement agreement, in the opioid settlement fund; requires any New York subdivision that receives funds pursuant to an opioid settlement agreement to spend interest earned on such funds on approved uses.
Requires the report on statewide opioid settlements include the amount of funds that have been spent and requires the public be provided information on how much funds have been spent.
A bill for an act relating to the opioid settlement fund, establishing the opioid epidemic response advisory council, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.
Reforms the opioid settlement board to provide services and supports to grieving families and include board members who lost a child, sibling, parent or close family member to substance use disorder.