Alabama Senate Bill SB319

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/11/23
• Refer: 5/11/23

Caption

To make supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023, from the Opioid Treatment and Abatement Fund to the entities and for the purposes herein in the amount of $10,000,000.

Impact

The implications of SB319 are significant as it aims to enhance the state's capacity to manage and treat individuals affected by opioid addiction. By allocating funds to the Department of Corrections, the bill acknowledges the need for substance abuse treatment within the justice system, including offering both pre and post-release services for individuals. Moreover, the large sum designated for community providers signals a commitment to support local programs that demonstrate effective outcomes for families suffering from opioid addiction. This approach is expected to foster community involvement and may lead to more tailored treatments for affected individuals.

Summary

SB319 is a bill that seeks to provide supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023, specifically from the Opioid Treatment and Abatement Fund. The total amount proposed for appropriation under this bill is $10,000,000, which is intended to address opioid-related issues in the state of Alabama. The bill aims to allocate funds to two main entities: the Department of Corrections and the Department of Mental Health, each receiving $1,500,000 and $8,500,000 respectively. This funding is earmarked for opioid and co-occurring substance abuse treatment, as well as for establishing a competitive grant program for community providers that deliver opioid treatment services.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on improving opioid treatment and support mechanisms, there may be points of contention regarding the distribution of funds and the effectiveness of the proposed programs. Discussions around the adequacy of the funding, the methods used to measure the success of community programs, and concerns over how swiftly these funds will be deployed could emerge as significant aspects of the discourse surrounding SB319. Stakeholders may also engage in debates over prioritizing funds for corrections versus community programs, as each segment plays a critical role in the multifaceted approach to combating opioid addiction.