OPIOIDS

It's been almost a decade since federal health officials first issued a warning about the herbal product kratom, promoted as a safe alternative to opioids for pain. It remains readily available in stores. Massachusetts and Springfield officials are taking action.

As part of a national class action lawsuit, drug companies and pharmacies have to pay $1 billion to Massachusetts over 18 years. Sixty percent of the money goes to the state to distribute, and 40 percent to cities and towns directly.