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Dave Busiek's avatar

Good column, Lynn. What’s the hold up in the legislature?

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Lynn Hicks's avatar

Dave, I wish I had a good answer. I don't think this issue has been a priority for the last three sessions. This session, lawmakers seem to be debating how much control the Legislature should have in dictating use of the funding. This Register story goes into more detail: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2025/04/24/iowa-house-senate-differ-in-how-to-distribute-opioid-settlement-money/83231599007/

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Ann Rezarch's avatar

This topic is close to my heart. Just over a year ago my nephew died of a fentanyl overdose in California. Not only is his life gone, my sister and niece will never be even close to the same as they were. Drug addiction is a formidable foe and any delay in using the tools and funds we have to address it - is too much delay.

RIP Danny.

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Lynn Hicks's avatar

I'm sorry, Ann. This epidemic has touched too many lives.

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Kali White VanBaale's avatar

Another great column, Lynn. I also have addition in my family and fentanyl is absolutely terrifying. Will never understand why our gov’t is getting in the way of help.

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