S6757

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday to close a technical loophole in the state's opioid settlement law that could have cost New York up to $250 million in settlement funds from Purdue Pharma. Senate Print 6757, sponsored by Sen. Fernandez, clarifies the definition of parties to statewide opioid settlement agreements to explicitly include members of the Sackler family and others involved in the prescription drug marketing, supply, and payment chain who contributed to the opioid epidemic through illegal conduct. The bill passed on a 44-16 vote, with 16 senators voting in opposition. Sen. Fernandez argued the legislation ensures that settlement funds secured from opioid manufacturers and distributors reach the families and communities that have borne the burden of the crisis. The measure takes effect immediately upon enactment.