Why Aren’t We Using the Opioid Settlement Funds to Take Care of Iowans?

I’m writing to ask a simple question: why is over $56 million from the opioid settlement just sitting there while Iowans are struggling? That money was meant to address the opioid crisis, yet because of legislative gridlock, it’s doing absolutely nothing. I’m frustrated—not just because of the inaction, but because this goes against what I thought we stood for. Fiscal responsibility isn’t just about cutting spending; it’s about using the resources we have wisely. Leaving $56 million untouched while families suffer isn’t responsible. It’s wasteful. We claim to be the party that takes care of our own, the party of personal responsibility and strong communities. So where’s the action? This isn’t some bloated government program—we’re talking about funds that were secured specifically to help people battling addiction, to prevent more deaths, and to support families devastated by this crisis. I expect better. Iowans expect better. Get to work, cut through the red tape, and put that money to use where it’s needed most. I’ll be watching how this is handled because this isn’t just about politics—it’s about doing the right thing. See this article if you don't know what I am referring to: https://cedarrapidsgazette-ia.newsmemory.com/?publink=1895223f3_134f87e