ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Monroe County has joined nationwide litigation against drug companies over the opioid epidemic. 

County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo announced lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies that make, market and distribute opioid prescription drugs.

“The opioid epidemic has taken a heartbreaking human toll in every corner of our community and has placed a significant financial burden on local taxpayers,” said Dinolfo. “Monroe County today joined a lawsuit against the makers, marketers, and distributors of opioids who fanned the flames of addiction across our nation. We intend to hold these companies accountable for their actions in order to recoup costs for taxpayers and reinvest in increased prevention, treatment, and enforcement moving forward.”

The county has retained national law firm, Simmons Hanley Conroy, which represents more than one hundred other counties.

According to officials, there will be no net cost to the county as a result of joining the lawsuits.