Senate Passes Bill Addressing Opiate Addiction Epidemic

The Senate granted its final approval Monday, April 1, to a bill addressing the fallout caused by the opioid addiction crisis. Sponsored by chair Julie Rosen, R-Vernon Center, and Senator Chris Eaton, DFL-Brooklyn Center, the bill would raise $20 million dollars by imposing licensing fees on opioid manufacturers and distributors and establish a council to direct funds towards opiate addiction prevention, education, treatment and recovery programs.

The measure would support several efforts, including aiding county social service programs that assist neglected children, including out-of-home placement, due to parental addiction. Money also would be used to develop evidence-based treatment programs and public awareness programs. Furthermore, statewide access to treatment and recovery services would be strengthened.

The Senate bill would eliminate the licensing fee should the State of Minnesota obtain lawsuit settlement funds. If the House does not agree to the Senate bill, a conference committee will be established to resolve the differences.

In other action, the Senate approved a bill allowing operators of Light Rail Trains (LRTs) to be charged with reckless driving. The bill results from the tragic death of a 29-year old driver when a LRT driver failed to yield to a stop light. The driver was not charged with careless driving.