State-ordered study says opioid settlement money should target treatment for incarcerated people

A recent study commissioned by South Dakota's Department of Social Services suggests that the state should prioritize spending its opioid settlement funds on treatment programs for incarcerated individuals. The $325,000 assessment highlights the urgent need for such programs, given the high prevalence of opioid addiction among those entering or exiting prisons and jails. This focus is crucial because it aims to break the cycle of addiction and incarceration, potentially reducing future criminal activity and improving public health outcomes. This strategic allocation of funds could have significant long-term benefits for the state's justice and healthcare systems.