Home

Drug Crisis: What is New Jersey Doing to Control the Epidemic?

Pre-Conditions for the Growth of Addiction

The United States is grappling with a profound drug crisis, encompassing opioid, marijuana, and general drug addiction. The opioid crisis, in particular, has been exacerbated by the overprescription of opioids, leading to widespread misuse and dependency. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation by increasing stress and isolation, which contributed to higher rates of substance abuse. The rise of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids has also played a significant role in the crisis, as they are more potent and deadly.

Social and economic factors have also fueled the crisis. Poverty, lack of employment opportunities, and insufficient access to healthcare are among the preconditions for the growth of addiction. The opioid crisis began with the overprescription of painkillers, which led to a shift towards illegal opioids like heroin and fentanyl. Additionally, the normalization of marijuana use has contributed to the perception that it is safe, though it can be a gateway to other drugs for some individuals. The lack of comprehensive mental health services has compounded the issue, as many turn to drugs as a coping mechanism for untreated mental health issues.

Social and Economic Impacts

Drug addiction has significant impacts on healthcare, public safety, and productivity. The healthcare system is burdened by the high costs of treating overdoses and long-term care for those struggling with addiction. In New Jersey, for example, the drug crisis has led to a significant increase in emergency room visits and hospitalizations. The economic impact is also substantial, as the productivity of individuals struggling with addiction is often severely reduced, leading to lost wages and increased unemployment. Furthermore, public safety is compromised due to the rise in drug-related crimes, which often fund further drug use and contribute to societal instability.

The impact on family and community structures is equally devastating. Families are torn apart by addiction, and the stigma surrounding drug use prevents many from seeking help. The economic burden on communities is also significant, as local governments struggle to provide adequate services and support for those affected. Moreover, the lack of comprehensive treatment options means that many individuals cycle through the justice system, further straining community resources.

Federal Countermeasures

Here are five recent and effective federal actions aimed at combating the opioid and marijuana crisis in the U.S.:

  1. Opioid Response Strategy
    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has developed a comprehensive Opioid Response Strategy that focuses on improving access to treatment, promoting the use of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and increasing public awareness about the dangers of opioids. This strategy targets individuals at risk of opioid misuse, particularly those in rural areas where healthcare resources are limited. It also supports the development of healthcare infrastructure to provide better care for those suffering from opioid addiction. Additionally, the strategy includes funding for research into new treatments and prevention methods, aiming to reduce the stigma associated with opioid use and increase the availability of treatment services.
  2. Marijuana Research Initiative
    The federal government has launched initiatives to study the effects of marijuana, particularly in the context of the opioid crisis. This involves funding research into whether marijuana can be a viable alternative for pain management, potentially reducing the need for opioids. The initiative targets areas where marijuana use is legal, aiming to understand its impact on public health and safety. It also explores the potential therapeutic benefits of marijuana in treating mental health disorders and chronic pain, which could help reduce the risk of opioid misuse.
  3. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Fentanyl Enforcement Initiative
    The DEA has increased efforts to combat the distribution of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is often responsible for overdose deaths. This initiative includes targeted enforcement actions against fentanyl trafficking networks, as well as public awareness campaigns to inform communities about the dangers of fentanyl. It also involves collaboration with other federal agencies to enhance interdiction and prosecution of fentanyl traffickers. Additionally, the initiative works with local law enforcement to provide training and resources to identify and combat fentanyl distribution effectively.
  4. CDC Overdose Data to Action Program
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has initiated the Overdose Data to Action program to provide funding and technical assistance to states to enhance their surveillance and response to opioid overdose outbreaks. This program targets state and local health departments, supporting them in developing robust data systems to track overdoses and respond quickly to emerging trends. It also helps in implementing evidence-based interventions and improving access to treatment for those affected by opioid addiction.
  5. SAMHSA Treatment Access Initiative
    The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has launched initiatives to improve access to treatment for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. This includes funding for community-based treatment programs, support for healthcare providers to become certified in medication-assisted treatment, and efforts to reduce barriers to care. The initiative targets underserved communities and aims to increase the availability of treatment services nationwide.

New Jersey Case - The Numbers Speak for Themselves

New Jersey has seen significant challenges in addressing its drug crisis. New Jersey addiction statistics show that in recent years, the state has faced a high number of overdose deaths, with 2,914 suspected drug-related deaths in 2019 and 3,047 in 2021, though the number has decreased to 2,778 in 2023 and 1,180 in the first eight months of 2024.
Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has implemented an unprecedented, comprehensive strategy to address substance use disorder and reduce overdose deaths. The state is receiving over $1 billion from legal settlements with companies involved in the opioid crisis, with over $120 million invested in 2024 alone—including $24 million to expand harm reduction infrastructure and $28.5 million to expand access to treatment medications.

  1. Harm Reduction Centers
    New Jersey has authorized harm reduction centers in all counties, providing safe environments for drug use under medical supervision. These centers offer naloxone distribution, counseling, and supplies for overdose prevention, now expanded to include test materials for dangerous adulterants like xylazine. The expansion of these services is a key part of the state’s overdose response strategy and is showing results in terms of declining overdose deaths.
  2. Treatment Expansion Programs
    New Jersey has significantly expanded treatment options, increasing access to medication-assisted treatment and behavioral therapies. Over $28 million from settlement funds was dedicated to these initiatives in 2024, supporting community-based centers and provider training.
  3. Data-Driven Programs and Diversion Initiatives
    The Attorney General’s Office has adopted an all-of-the-above strategy, integrating prevention, treatment, and enforcement. Programs like “Operation Helping Hand” divert individuals from the criminal justice system into treatment, while Opioid Response Teams provide 24/7 support in the hardest-hit areas. The state also uses advanced data dashboards (like NJCARES.gov) to track and respond to the crisis in real time.
  4. Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP)
    The state’s PMP tracks sales of narcotic painkillers and addictive drugs, making it easier to identify abuse or diversion and to take action against reckless prescribers.
  5. Public Awareness and Education
    New Jersey continues its public education campaigns about the risks of opioids and synthetic drugs, promoting prevention and destigmatizing the pursuit of help.

Approaches in Neighboring Regions

Here are effective strategies from states geographically closest to New Jersey:

Is It Possible to Stop the Crisis? Looking to the Future

Approaches with high potential for success include:

Less effective approaches:

Conclusions and Recommendations

The drug crisis in the United States—and in New Jersey in particular—remains a significant but addressable public health challenge. New Jersey is showing progress through a coordinated, well-funded response: expanding harm reduction, investing in treatment, leveraging data, and diverting individuals toward care rather than punishment. Continued focus on prevention, holistic treatment, and community resilience, supported by settlement funding and bipartisan support, offers realistic hope for sustained progress in reducing overdose deaths and rebuilding communities.