NEWBURGH – Attorney General Letitia James toured the Hudson Valley Tuesday, and she delivered checks that were part of a multi-billion lawsuit, from 2019, against Big Pharma to combat the opioid crisis.
“This money will go toward prevention, education and for remediation to address the opioid crisis,” said James, after touring Cornerstone Health’s recovery center in the City of Newburgh. The funds are from a settlement with drug manufacturers and distributors.
“These funds will be put in a lock box” to be used expressly fight the opioid epidemic.
James gave a $7.6 million check to local elected officials for funds only to be used to help with the crisis, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic as many people struggle with mental illness.
“Mental illness, and individuals who are chemically addicted go hand in hand,” she said. “I made a commitment that when I was elected as attorney general I would hold Big Pharma accountable, and we are delivering on that.”
