Governor Larry Rhoden announced that South Dakota is awarding more than $7.8 million in opioid settlement transformative grants to address gaps in community prevention, treatment, and recovery services. The announcement was made at a press conference in Sioux Falls Thursday.
The funding comes from legal settlements with pharmaceutical companies tied to the opioid crisis. Since applications opened in late 2025, South Dakota has awarded more than $10 million in settlement funds during 2026. This funding cycle supports 10 projects, including statewide curriculum enhancements, facility improvements, additional staff, peer and provider supports, and expanded treatment options.
Funding recommendations are made by the Opioid Advisory Committee to the Departments of Social Services (DSS) and Health, with DSS administering the state’s Opioid Abatement and Remediation Fund.
South Dakota is projected to receive approximately $70 million in settlement funds through 2038. To date, the state has received about $23 million and allocated more than $20 million statewide.
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