DOC requests funds to pay for new staff position

By Sharon Estep

At Monday, September 18 meeting of Scott County Commissioners, the Department of Corrections (DOC) requested funds to help pay for a staff position. This position would assist individuals with substance use disorders (SUD), especially those transitioning out of the criminal justice system. The DOC seeks to utilize $75,000 of opioid settlement funds to cover part of the cost.

The funding formula has not changed for three years, even though the number of clients served has increased, creating a shortfall in resources. The request focuses on the role, which primarily involves providing treatment and recovery services to clients, 80% of whom have SUD.

To use the opioid settlement funds, there are specific requirements that must align with the Attorney General's guidelines which are divided into Schedule A (preferred uses) and Scheduled B (allowed but not preferred uses). There's a need to clarify how much of the staff position's duties involve direct activities that qualify for the opioid funds and whether it's feasible to split the funding between restricted and unrestricted sources.

The discussion emphasized that the focus of the opioid settlement money should be on expanding services related to opioid use disorder (OUD) and SUD, rather than simply covering existing costs unless there is a specific loss in the community directly tied to the opioid crisis.

The DOC is encouraged to outline how the funds will enable new or expanded services, which is a critical component of meeting the settlement's requirements.

The state requires both monthly reports and a larger annual report to account for the expenditures. Transparency in how the funds are allocated and used is crucial, especially since they are part of a nationwide lawsuit.

The DOC was advised to check if other counties are using the funds in a similar manner and how they justified the use of the money for such positions, and provide a more detailed breakdown of daily responsibilities, qualifying duties, and how these activities tie into the approved uses of the funds.

Once the justification is provided, the department can present it as part of a resolution. If it involves a private entity like Thrive, an agreement will be needed to ensure accountability and reporting. For governmental entities, a clear record of justification will be attached to the resolution.