When I saw the headline “St. Charles County uses millions in opioid settlements to boost jail treatment program,” it highlighted a national issue. Counties are receiving opioid settlement funds, yet many dollars remain unused or poorly allocated. With payments continuing for years, we have a rare opportunity to invest wisely—rethinking correctional treatment and breaking the cycle of addiction, incarceration, and relapse.

Aaron M. Laxton, Executive Director of ARCA – Assisted Recovery Centers of America, highlights the dangers of methamphetamine use and stresses the availability of treatment resources, following the tragic death of a 3-month-old in Fairview Heights from meth exposure.