Livingston Today

State Representative Ann Bollin has expressed her opposition to the governor's proposal to dismantle Michigan’s Opioid Advisory Commission. This commission, established in 2022, is responsible for overseeing the allocation of opioid settlement funds and offering expert guidance on combating the state's opioid crisis.

The commission advises legislators on utilizing $1.6 billion in settlement funds for addiction treatment, recovery support, and overdose prevention over an 18-year period. Concerns have been raised regarding the state's management of these funds.

Recent information from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services indicates that Governor Whitmer's administration is contemplating replacing the commission with a new entity called the Michigan Opioids Task Force.

“This commission has been an essential partner in our fight against opioid addiction and overdose deaths,” said Bollin, R-Brighton Township. “It brings together experts who live and breathe this issue every day – people who are not motivated by politics but by saving lives. Eliminating this commission to consolidate power under the administration is a dangerous step backward.”

Bollin highlighted the need for independent oversight as opioid overdoses continue to impact communities across Michigan. The state remains severely affected by the epidemic, with nearly 3,000 overdose deaths reported in 2023 according to CDC data.

“The people who serve on the Opioid Advisory Commission have dedicated their careers to fighting addiction – their work holds the state accountable and ensures funds are being used effectively, so our communities have the support they need to address this crisis head-on,” Bollin continued. “Dismantling this commission would send the wrong message to everyone who is struggling with addiction or has lost a loved one.”