Efforts of the Luzerne County Opioid Commission

WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — There is a serious public health and safety crisis involving opioids across the nation and right here in Luzerne County.

That’s why a special commission has been formed with the goal of finding the best uses for opioid litigation proceeds in order to fight the epidemic.

One overdose is too many, and every effort helps in the fight against the opioid crisis.

It’s called the Commission on Opioid Misuse and Addiction Abatement, and its purpose is to recommend uses for the county’s share of state settlement dollars reached with opioid manufacturers and wholesale distributors.

“The uses of this money are very limited, so the opioid settlement defined a number of things that it could be used for, so this commission is really nothing more than a review and advisory committee for Luzerne County Council,” said Sam Sanguedolce the Luzerne County District Attorney.

Sanguedolce says the county is getting $1.5 million each year for the next 18 years.

The commission is comprised of the District Attorney, Director of Drug and Alcohol, Human Services Division Head, Correctional Services Division Head, County Manager, one member of the county council, and one county citizen Mary Butera of Exeter.

“I wanted to be sure that those struggling with addiction and still active in their addiction have a voice. I myself have struggled in the past, I’ve lost two brothers to this disease,” added Butera.

One of the goals of the commission is to identify local programs, agencies, and functions to utilize the proceeds in the fight against the illegal trafficking of controlled substances, opioid misuse, and addiction.

“We think it’s going to be a very positive impact because there are so many possible treatments and uses that go unfunded, so we’re trying to use this money to the best of our ability to try to help people that have fallen victim to the epidemic,” explained Sanguedolce.

Butera is a certified recovery specialist, a certified family recovery specialist, and a community health worker.

She wants those who are struggling to know, that help is out there.

“Every day I see the devastation that the opioid epidemic has caused. By the grace of god, I’m standing close to ten years drug-free, which in my life ten years ago I didn’t see it as a possibility, so I would like to give others that opportunity,” continued Butera.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Here is a list of local resources .

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