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As opioid settlement funds hit state coffers, a marketing blitz begins

Jan 15, 2024
State and local officials are seeing the first wave of the $50 billion arrive. They're also seeing pitches for products to spend it on.
How to use opioid settlement funds has become part of the conversation around addiction. Above, Sen. John Kennedy, a Louisiana Republican, holds up a bag of fentanyl at a hearing.
Kent Nishimura/Getty Images

In rural states’ “citizen” legislatures, ordinary citizens can’t afford to serve

Jan 31, 2023
For many who consider seeking office, the low pay is outweighed by the costs. As a result, legislatures may not be truly representative.
Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena with one of her children at the New Mexico Capitol. "I put my family in a compromising situation by deciding to serve in an unpaid body,” she said.
Savannah Maher/Marketplace