(The Center Square) – Wisconsin’s Department of Justice is receiving $7 million in a federal grant for opioid and substance abuse treatment.
The funds will go toward the Wisconsin Deflection Initiative, which aims to connect those struggling with substance abuse disorders with support services before they experience crisis.
“Making treatment more accessible is important not only for those struggling with substance-use disorder but for public safety as well,” Attorney General Josh Kaul said. “This grant will allow for more to be done to help fight addiction.”
The goal of the program is to intervene quickly and early to connect people with the correct supports.
The initiative includes both self-referrals and officer intervention programs along with outreach to at-risk individuals and an enhanced response to overdoses.
The program will also increase coordination between law enforcement and treatment providers for mental health and recovery.
