Overview

On Feb. 25, 2022, the Kentucky Attorney General's Office announced the finalization of a $26 billion national settlement with Cardinal Health, McKesson, and AmerisourceBergen – three major pharmaceutical distributors in the U.S. (Distributors) – and Johnson & Johnson (J&J), which manufactured and marketed opioids. The agreement stems from the companies’ roles in creating and fueling the opioid epidemic. 

Of that $26 billion, Kentucky is slated to receive $478.1 million to be paid out in installments through 2038. In collaboration with the Attorney General’s office, KACo worked to ensure that counties receive their fair share of the settlement dollars to support addiction treatment and recovery services. 

Since then, additional settlements have been reached with other companies related to pharmaceutical manufacturing, distribution and retail sales.

With each settlement, counties and cities will receive half of the state’s allocation, less funds set aside for payment of fees to the attorneys that represented local governments in the litigation.

You can submit a question about opioid settlement funds HERE.

KACo Contact

Opioid Settlement Resource Library

The resource library contains links to the national settlement agreement and distribution schedules, information about the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, and resources from NACo and Johns Hopkins University. 

Access the library here

Opioid Settlement Trainings and Events

Opioid Settlement News