Kentucky Attorney General recently announced plans to launch a comprehensive drug prevention program aimed at addressing the addiction epidemic plaguing the state. The initiative, dubbed 'Better Without It,' is specifically tailored to target the youth population and aims to fill a critical gap in the state's efforts to combat substance abuse.
The Attorney General presented the details of the program to a state commission, which unanimously approved a $3.6 million investment over two years to support its implementation. With over one million Kentuckians under the age of 18, the initiative is poised to make a significant impact in preventing drug abuse among young people.
Despite the grim statistics of substance abuse in Kentucky, there have been some positive developments in the fight against addiction. Recent data revealed a 9.8% decrease in drug overdose deaths in the state, with fentanyl being identified as the primary cause of 79% of overdose fatalities in 2023.
The 'Better Without It' campaign will leverage various platforms, including social media, streaming services, college campuses, and partnerships with influencers, to disseminate its message and educate young individuals about the dangers of drug experimentation. Additionally, the initiative will collaborate with schools to implement prevention programs.
The Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, responsible for distributing funds from settlements with opioid companies, played a crucial role in approving funding for the prevention program. The state has allocated over $55 million to combat the drug crisis, with a significant portion of settlement funds directed towards local communities.
Notable efforts at both the state and federal levels have been made to address the addiction crisis in Kentucky. The state boasts a high number of residential drug and alcohol treatment beds per capita, while federal funding secured by Senate Republican leader has been instrumental in supporting anti-addiction initiatives.
Furthermore, Kentucky's legislature recently passed a comprehensive measure targeting drug-related crimes, including stricter penalties for fentanyl distribution resulting in fatal overdoses. The state remains committed to combating substance abuse and protecting its citizens from the devastating effects of addiction.
