Walmart poised to pay Washington millions for opioid programs
Attorney General Bob Ferguson says Walmart is poised to pay Washington more than $62 million for opioid recovery programs in the state.
“This is another important step in our fight for accountability for the opioid industry,” Ferguson said. “These resources will increase prevention efforts and help Washingtonians in need.”
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This is part of a $3.1 billion multi-state resolution that still needs to be approved by other attorneys general. At least 43 states have to approve the resolution for it to to kick in. Ferguson says he plans sign off on it. According to the AG's Office, at least 85% of litigating and non-litigating local governments in the settlements have to approve as well.
Funds will be split among state, county, city governments.
In addition to the payout, Walmart has agreed to tightly monitor opioid prescriptions and prevent patients from getting multiple prescriptions.
To date, Washington has recovered more than $800 million from companies that fueled the opioid epidemic.
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Angela King
Morning News Host
Angela King is the local host of Morning Edition. She’s been a part of the northwest news scene since the early 1990s. A proud University of Washington alumna, with degrees in broadcast journalism and American ethnic studies, she started her career as a news writer in Seattle, before becoming a reporter and anchor in Seattle, Portland and Albuquerque.
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