Baker Seeks $28 Million To Fight Opioid Abuse In Mass.

Boston (AP) - Gov. Charlie Baker is asking state lawmakers for nearly $28 million in additional spending to help stem a spike in the number of opioid overdose deaths in Massachusetts.

The request will be included in a separate appropriations bill Baker plans to file Friday after signing the new $38.1 billion state budget for the fiscal year that began July 1.

The request includes $15.2 million for Department of Public Health substance abuse services, $3.8 million for school-based substance abuse prevention programs and $3 million for MassHealth substance abuse treatment and prevention.

Baker is also asking for $5.8 million to transfer women who have been civilly committed for alcohol and substance abuse from a state prison in Framingham to a Department of Mental Health facility.

Baker's request must be approved by lawmakers.