Augusta is taking steps to join in litigation against manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids for unfair marketing and failure to properly monitor distribution of the dangerous painkillers. Commissioners were handed a memo Tuesday detailing the role of the drug makers and distributors in contributing to a “public health crisis” where patients are turned into addicts to feed corporate greed. City General Counsel Andrew MacKenzie said the lead counsel in the litigation would be Baron and Budd, headquartered in Dallas, if the commission finalizes plans to participate.