Yuma County joins new opioid settlement

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma County Board of Supervisors has approved joining a new national opioid settlement.

This is the second round of settlements, following an initial agreement in 2021. By joining, the county agrees not to pursue future claims against the companies involved.

The latest agreement includes six additional pharmaceutical companies. Payments from the settlement can be spread out over time, ranging from one year up to 18 years.

County officials say the money will be shared across the region, with a portion going to Yuma County and the rest distributed to cities like Somerton, Wellton, San Luis, and Yuma.

Officials say the funding could support treatment, education, and awareness efforts in the community. Some of that work already includes providing free naloxone... a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses through local partners.

Health leaders say many opioids are easy to access and are often mixed with substances like fentanyl, where even a small amount can be deadly.

They say raising awareness and expanding resources is key to preventing overdoses.