Maine to Receive Over $2 Million to Fight Opioid Epidemic

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded the State of Maine over $2,000,000 to fight the heroin and opioid abuse epidemic.

U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee and a member of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee made the announcement on Wednesday.

“The heroin and opioid abuse epidemic is tragically fueling a record number of overdose deaths and is taking a devastating toll on families and communities in Maine and across the country,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will support vital programs that provide hope, recovery, and healing to Mainers who are struggling with addiction.”

The funding was authorized through the 21st Century Cures Act, which was signed into law in December 2016. That Act included five provisions authored by Senator Collins. Health and Human Services is releasing a total of $485 million in funding to all 50 states to combat drug addiction.

Last year, there were 376 deaths from drug overdose in Maine and more than 52,000 nationwide.