Public Health - Use of Opioid Restitution Fund and Training Under the Overdose Response Program

SB 594 modifies Maryland’s Overdose Response Program training requirements and clarifies restrictions on the Opioid Restitution Fund. It mandates that training on opioid overdose response must emphasize "restoration of breathing, avoiding withdrawal, and compassionate postoverdose support" (Section 13-3103(b)). The bill specifies that fund dollars must be used exclusively for settlement-aligned purposes, including expanding naloxone access in public buildings, supporting peer recovery services, addressing racial disparities in care, and funding evidence-based prevention/treatment programs. These changes directly affect the Maryland Department of Health and organizations receiving fund allocations for overdose response initiatives.