The Erie County Legislature unanimously approved requests from the Health Department in support of combating the opioid/heroin epidemic that has taken the lives of hundreds of residents each year for the past few years. As the number of deaths and overdoses rose, the Legislature and county departments came together to identify how to best invest $1 million to deal with this crisis.

“All parties involved have agreed that the county should be looking at ways to stop heroin overdoses and deaths, assist addicts in getting the help they need, and identify where our weaknesses lie. Today, we approved a portion of the designated funding for various efforts that will aid in the fight. The Sheriff’s Office, Mental Health Department and Health Department have worked with the Legislature to bring forward what they believe need immediate attention and I look forward to continuing to examine this issue and the programs we have in place,” said Legislator Dixon.

The Legislature also supported increasing and improving the county’s distribution of Narcan, a drug that is used to prevent overdose deaths. First responders are administering Narcan at an alarming rate and have found that using the drug can be a difference between life and death. 

The Legislature also approved additional resources for the Medical Examiner’s Office. During this epidemic, the Medical Examiner’s Office has proven to be a valuable tool for law enforcement. Today’s appropriation includes six jobs. The Legislature will meet on June 15 to discuss funding additional positions for a discharge program. 

In addition, the Legislature has designated an additional $500,000 and approved an expedited RFP (Request for Proposal) process for non-for-profits and private sector organizations to compete for funding. The county is hoping a competitive grant program using this money will promote out of the box and new ideas to help fight this crisis.