Assemblyman Al Stirpe (D-Cicero) announced that $30 million for treatment and recovery-based programs to help address the growing heroin and opioid epidemic will be included in the Assembly budget proposal.

“Too many families in our area and across the state have witnessed the damaging impact that the heroin and opioid crisis has had on our community,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “This money will help to fund more treatment, education and prevention programs to help individuals currently battling addition and support those on the road to recovery.”

The $30 million included in the proposal will be allocated for the following programs:

• $15 million for treatment and preventative services, including an expansion of services that will target underserved communities;
• $9 million for post-treatment community-based recovery services; and
• $6 million for patient engagement programs to help individuals find treatment options.