Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has issued a strong statement condemning the recent proposal by state leaders to redirect opioid settlement funds to cover budget deficits. The $1.14 billion, 18-year opioid One Arizona Agreement is at the center of this controversy, as GOP-led budget shortfalls prompted an attempt to reallocate these critical resources.
In her statement, AG Mayes expressed deep disappointment with both the Democratic Governor and GOP leadership for their decision, which she considers an unlawful use of the funds. “I repeatedly warned them this is an unlawful use of these funds,” Mayes stated, emphasizing her commitment to protecting the intended use of the settlement money. She praised the legislators who opposed this move, recognizing their understanding of the funds’ importance in addressing the opioid crisis.
The settlement funds, according to AG Mayes, are meant to address the widespread impact of the opioid epidemic, which has devastated communities across the United States, including Arizona. The misuse of these funds, she argued, would violate the terms of the agreement and undermine efforts to combat the public health crisis caused by opioid addiction.
Mayes highlighted the origins of the opioid crisis, pointing to the role of pharmaceutical companies that misrepresented the dangers and addictiveness of opioids for profit. This deception has led to over a million American deaths, tearing apart families and communities. In Arizona alone, the impact has been severe, with more than 11,500 opioid overdose deaths since 2017 and over 98,000 emergency room visits for suspected drug overdoses since 2020.
AG Mayes is resolute in her stance, vowing to do everything in her power to prevent the reallocation of these funds. “I have stated publicly and very clearly that I refuse to release these funds in this way as it would violate the agreement,” she affirmed, labeling the budget proposal an “egregious grab.”
As Arizona continues to battle the opioid crisis, the importance of these settlement funds cannot be overstated. They are vital for ongoing efforts to provide treatment, support recovery, and prevent further addiction. Mayes’ commitment to protecting these resources underscores her dedication to addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges facing the state.
