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Committee considers bill to bar state purchases of opioid antagonists from settlement-linked companies
Summary
Lawmakers heard testimony on a bill that would prevent state agencies from buying opioid-antagonist products from companies that were defendants in opioid litigation; witnesses debated supply options, procurement mechanics and potential market effects.
Lawmakers heard competing arguments on a bill that would prohibit the state from purchasing opioid-antagonist products from companies involved in opioid litigation and settlements.
Sponsor Senator Mike Yakawich said the measure is "a bill of conscience" aimed at ensuring the state does not financially benefit companies he and others say contributed to the opioid epidemic. "I come here with a happy heart and with a heavy heart," Yakawich told the House Health and Human Services Committee as he opened the hearing.
Proponents—including tribal representatives and the Montana Medical Association—urged the committee to recognize harms communities experienced during the opioid crisis and supported a policy…
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