This information was compiled based on information from publicly available legislation, state memorandums or executive orders, state websites, and press releases, as well as supplemental interviews with state officials with a role in administering opioid settlement funding.
It offers a snapshot of settlement spending and priorities at the state level (e.g., funding administered by state agencies or designated statewide abatement funds) as well as laws, agreements, and processes that the state has established for allocating funds. NASHP does not track spending at the local or county level, but includes any relevant state-level reports or dashboards that capture local spending within a state. For details on the definitions used here, check out the definitions at the bottom of this page. You can also get an overview of opioid settlement decisions in all states.
Settlement Spending Status
Background
The Department of Health Services (DHS) is required to submit a quarterly report on opioid expenditures to the Joint Committee on Finance. This quarterly reporting process assists in monitoring progress toward the state’s yearly spending priorities — the proposal for state fiscal year 2025 features the most recent spending priorities put forth by DHS, which were modified and approved by the Joint Committee on Finance.
Has the state awarded settlement funds?
Yes. For state fiscal year 2025, the majority of funding went to constructing new facilities, harm reduction efforts, and federally recognized tribal nations. Some additional funding covers medication assisted treatment programs, room and board costs for Medicaid members seeking residential treatment, and law enforcement activities, among other projects.
Has the state announced priorities or recommendations for spending?
Yes. In the Opioid Settlement Funds Proposal for State Fiscal Year 2025, DHS proposes twelve strategies for the state share of settlement funding. Strategies include funding for tribal nations, prevention efforts, family resource centers, peer supports for opioid treatment programs, and harm reduction supplies, among others.
Statewide reporting of local spending
Not applicable.
State Settlement Website or Dashboard
Legislation
2021 Wisconsin Act 57
Spending Plans and Agreements
Process for Settlement Disbursement
Legislation allocates the entirety of the state share of the funds to the Department of Health Services each year.
State and Political Subdivision Split
Structure
Locally Controlled (>50 percent of funding controlled by cities and/or counties)
Allocation Formula
30 percent state, 70 percent local governments
Role of Advisory Committee
Not applicable.
