A new statewide assessment is recommending that South Dakota invest future opioid settlement dollars into addiction treatment and recovery services for people entering and leaving prisons and jails.
The report, commissioned by the Department of Social Services, found significant gaps in care for individuals battling opioid addiction within the criminal justice system. Department Secretary Matt Althoff told lawmakers many people with severe opioid use disorders eventually become involved with the justice system and need continued treatment both during and after incarceration.
South Dakota is expected to receive about $99 million in opioid settlement funds through 2038 and has already collected nearly $33 million. Much of that money has already been distributed through grants supporting addiction treatment programs across the state.
Officials say future funding could expand access to medication-assisted treatment, including medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. While those treatments are already available in state correctional facilities, leaders say more follow-up care is needed after inmates return to their communities.
Lawmakers also questioned the long-term sustainability of grant-funded programs, but state officials say future awards will prioritize projects that can continue operating without relying on permanent taxpayer funding.
The goal, officials say, is to reduce addiction, prevent overdose deaths, and support long-term recovery across South Dakota.
