Local governments work to allocate opioid settlement funds amid strict guidelines
Local governments in Christian County and Hopkinsville are cautiously allocating opioid settlement funds amid strict guidelines.Summary
Christian County received $525,928.69 and Hopkinsville $672,474.61 in opioid settlement funds since 2022, but have spent only about 1% and 8% respectively, leaving large balances. Officials say they are waiting for clear guidance on eligible expenditures to ensure compliance with strict settlement rules.
The county has allocated $40,000 to Courage House, an after‑treatment facility, and created an application process reviewed by a magistrate committee. Hopkinsville has spent $20,837 on attorney fees required by the settlement and has not yet approved an opioid remediation budget, with future spending pending City Council approval. Both jurisdictions emphasize that any interest earned must also be used for opioid‑related purposes and cannot be diverted to general funds.
(Source：Kentucky New Era)