Arizona Opioid Settlement Is Paying for Methadone in Maricopa Jails

Arizona is set to receive $1.215 billion over 18 years from opioid lawsuit settlements under the One Arizona Agreement. Maricopa County is directing a portion of its share toward starting medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) during incarceration and connecting people to community providers upon release.

Why Jail-Based MOUD Matters

The 72 hours following release from incarceration is the most dangerous period for a person with opioid use disorder. Tolerance drops during incarceration; the street supply is saturated with fentanyl. Research consistently shows that initiating methadone or buprenorphine treatment during incarceration dramatically reduces post-release overdose deaths and increases treatment engagement.

The Settlement Landscape

Arizona $526 million state share and $669 million county/city share are governed by the One Arizona Agreement approved use list, which explicitly includes medications, treatment infrastructure, and navigation services. Arizona ranks 49th out of 51 for behavioral health access. Fewer than 1 in 20 Arizonans with opioid use disorder receive medications like buprenorphine or methadone. The settlement funding represents the most concrete near-term opportunity to change that ratio.

Why This Matters for People in Recovery

If you or someone you love is currently incarcerated or recently released in Maricopa County, ask specifically about MOUD availability and community provider referrals through the county program. Find Arizona treatment options near you.