The bill establishes appropriations from the Opioid Abatement Special Fund for fiscal year 2026, allocating a total of $6,000,000 to various health and social service initiatives aimed at addressing opioid use disorder in Vermont. Key allocations include funding for outreach staff positions, recovery residences, syringe services, overdose prevention centers, and various community programs designed to support individuals affected by opioid use disorder. The bill emphasizes the intent for these positions and services to receive ongoing funding from the Special Fund, contingent upon its financial viability.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding opioid use disorder treatment and the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee. It removes references to "medication-assisted treatment" and replaces them with "medication for opioid use disorder" to align with updated terminology. The Advisory Committee is tasked with consulting individuals with lived experience of opioid use disorder and prioritizing spending from the Special Fund based on community needs and outcomes from previous grants. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Passed By the House -- Official: 18-93
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 18-93
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 18-93
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 18-93
As Enacted: 18-93