WASHINGTON – Yesterday, Senator Jim Justice introduced Raleigh County Commissioner and Board Member of the West Virginia First Foundation, Gregory Duckworth, as a witness to the Senate Aging Committee, and asked questions highlighting the devastating impact opioids have had on West Virginia families:
“Greg Duckworth is an incredible man, and we’ve worked hard together in the state to combat the opioid crisis that has devastated West Virgina families. I’m proud to have him here representing West Virginia, and it is encouraging to see opioid related deaths decline in the state over the past few years – but we cannot get complacent. As Senator, I look forward to continue working with the West Virginia First Foundation to combat the opioid addiction epidemic,” said Senator Jim Justice.
“I am honored to have represented West Virginia and West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) in yesterday’s hearing, highlighting the devastating impact of the opioid crisis—especially on our aging population. Seniors are too often the overlooked victims of this epidemic, facing the burdens of caring for loved ones affected by addiction. The statistics we face are daunting, but with strong leadership and collaboration, we can turn the tide. I sincerely thank Senator Justice for his leadership, both as our former Governor and now as our Senator. We are very excited about his role on this committee and look forward to the important work we will do together in the future,” said Commissioner Greg Duckworth.
BACKGROUND:
- As West Virginia Governor, Senator Justice signed a state senate bill recognizing the creation of the West Virginia First Foundation that managed nearly $1 billion in opioid settlements.
- The foundation received 72.5 percent of each settlement or judgement while 24.5 percent was to be sent to local governments.
- WVFF is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to transforming the lives of West Virginians by strategically disbursing Opioid Funds to drive meaningful, lasting change in our communities with a mission of empowering West Virginians to prevent substance use disorder, support recovery, and save lives.
- In just a few short months, West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) has made unprecedented strides in tackling the state’s substance use crisis. With the rollout of the Initial Opportunity Grant (IOG) program last fall, the Foundation took a major step toward fulfilling that mission. As 2025 begins, nearly $10.4 million has already been awarded to organizations statewide, marking a swift and efficient allocation of resources that is rarely seen in similar initiatives.
- Year-over-year data for the 12 months ending in August 2024 shows a 32.79 percent decline in drug overdose deaths in West Virginia, surpassing the national average decrease of 23.7 percent.
- More information of WVFF can be found here.