Prevention Council funding was proposed by Byrne in his 2023 State of the County

Carmel, NY – Last night, the Putnam County Legislature voted to approve a number of proposals put forth by County Executive Kevin Byrne in his 2023 State of the County. With unanimous support, the legislature approved funding to save the Putnam County Prevention Council and make them whole through 2023. Previous funding streams from a grant supporting the Prevention Council had expired, and more funding was needed for education, training, harm reduction, and evidence-based programs. 

“It’s no secret that prior to COVID, the opioid epidemic was the public health crisis of our lifetime. And the truth is, the pandemic only exacerbated the opioid crisis,” said County Executive Byrne. “I’m grateful to the County Legislature for their swift action in voting to approve this funding. This money will go directly into helping those individuals struggling with the disease of addiction and educating residents.”

“This funding will allow the Prevention Council to continue their important work of preventing substance use disorder, promoting healthier lifestyles, and stigma reduction,” said Legislator Amy Sayegh, Chairman of the Health Committee. “This use of opioid settlement funds fits perfectly with the goals for harm reduction and prevention, something the Prevention Council works for diligently. This will increase residents access to the help and support the Council offers.  I thank County Executive Byrne recognizing the need for this funding, and I look forward to working with him on more ways we can support community partners in their fight against opioid epidemic.”

The $85,000 used to support the Prevention Council will be taken from the opioid settlement funds Putnam County received as part the New York State Attorney General’s lawsuit against pharmaceutical companies and their part in creating the opioid epidemic that has plagued our nation for decades.