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.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Lohse

HF 584 establishes an Opioid Epidemic Response Advisory Council in Iowa to oversee opioid settlement funds, enhancing treatment and recovery services for those affected.

Introduced, referred to Appropriations.

#boards #commissions #andcouncils #narcotics

Summary of Bill HF 584

Bill Number: HF 584
Title: 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.
Status: Introduced, referred to Appropriations
Introduced Date: February 25, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Boards, Commissions, and Councils; Narcotics

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 584 is to address the ongoing opioid epidemic in Iowa by establishing an Opioid Epidemic Response Advisory Council. This council will oversee the allocation of funds from the opioid settlement fund and evaluate the effectiveness of various projects aimed at combating opioid addiction and overdose.

Key Provisions

Establishment of the Advisory Council:

The bill creates an advisory council tasked with guiding the use of funds related to opioid settlement agreements.
The council will consist of members with expertise in addiction treatment, recovery services, and public health.

Annual Reporting Requirements:

The council is required to submit an annual report to the General Assembly by January 31 each year.
Reports must detail individual projects funded by grants, including:
- The number of individuals receiving treatment or information.
- Measurable outcomes achieved by participants.
- Demographic data of individuals involved in the projects.
- Progress towards statewide access to treatment services.

Evaluation of Programs:

The Director of the Department of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the advisory council, will evaluate funded programs and report findings to the General Assembly.
Evaluations will assess the impact of programs on recovery, employment, family reunification, and criminal justice involvement.

Recommendations for Future Funding:

The advisory council will provide recommendations in its annual report regarding the continuation, adjustment, or discontinuation of appropriations and grants.
The council will also suggest funding levels for existing and new initiatives related to opioid abuse prevention.

Standing Appropriation:

The bill includes provisions for a standing appropriation to ensure ongoing funding for the initiatives outlined.

Impact

Who Will Be Affected:

Individuals struggling with opioid addiction and their families will benefit from enhanced treatment and recovery services.
Healthcare providers and organizations involved in addiction treatment will be directly impacted by the funding and initiatives supported by the council.
State legislators and policymakers will receive data-driven insights to inform future decisions regarding opioid-related funding and programs.

Procedural Aspects

The bill was introduced on February 25, 2025, and has been referred to the Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

The advisory council's first report is due by January 31, 2031, marking a significant timeline for evaluating the effectiveness of the funded projects.

In summary, HF 584 aims to create a structured approach to combat the opioid crisis in Iowa through strategic funding, oversight, and evaluation, ultimately seeking to improve the lives of those affected by opioid addiction.