Opioid settlements are agreements reached between governments (at the state, county, or municipal levels) and pharmaceutical companies, distributors, and retailers. These settlements aim to resolve lawsuits that hold these companies accountable for their role in the opioid crisis. By providing funds, they address the widespread harm caused by opioid addiction and overdose. Funds from these settlements are generally earmarked for initiatives that prevent and treat opioid addiction, support communities affected by opioid misuse, and cover associated costs to healthcare, social, and behavioral health services.