The bill H.660 establishes appropriations for the fiscal year 2027 from the Opioid Abatement Special Fund and the Substance Misuse Prevention Special Fund in Vermont. It allocates significant funding to various departments for initiatives aimed at addressing substance use disorders, including $455,000 for outreach staff, $1.6 million for recovery residences, and $850,000 for syringe services, among others. The bill emphasizes the intent of the General Assembly to ensure ongoing funding for these initiatives as long as the Special Fund has sufficient resources. Additionally, it mandates quarterly reporting from the Department of Health regarding expenditures from the Opioid Abatement Special Fund.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the legislative intent to support Burlington's overdose prevention center and to consider its operational needs during the fiscal year 2027 budget adjustment process. It also includes provisions for the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee to consult with various stakeholders to prioritize spending from the Opioid Abatement Special Fund. The bill amends existing laws to enhance the focus on co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorders, and it requires the Department of Health to submit a plan for syringe recovery models by December 15, 2026. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Passed By the House -- Official: 18-4772
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 18-4772
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 18-4772, 18-4774, 18-4812
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 18-4772, 18-4774, 18-4812