Adult Substance Abuse Bill Passes House

Newtown’s State Representative Christopher Lyddy announced May 13 the passage of House Bill 6320, An Act Implementing the Recommendations of the Legislative Program Review and Investigations Committee Concerning Substance Abuse Treatment for Adults.

The legislation establishes benchmarks and ensures the development of a state substance abuse plan for preventing, treating, and reducing alcohol and drug abuse among adults.

“Properly caring for people suffering with substance abuse is long overdue,” Rep Lyddy, co-sponsor and driving force behind the legislation, said. “Not only do we need to ensure individuals are receiving support, but also that the system is working.”

Rep Lyddy said the state should ensure contracted community providers are delivering comprehensive treatment, and that they are held accountable for the funds they receive and the services they provide.

The legislation requires clearly defined treatment options, plans and mission statements which will then allow for the proper evaluation and assessment of local providers.

Dorrie Carolan, co-founder and vice chair of the Board of Directors of Newtown Parent Connection, for which Mr Lyddy served as a board member, believes early intervention along with the length and quality of treatment is key to long-term success for those who suffer from the disease of addiction.

“All agencies must be held accountable and work on improving the outcome from this insidious disease,” she commented. “I feel that this new legislation can only improve the process.”

The legislation was based on recommendations from the Program Review and Investigations Committee’s Substance Abuse Treatment for Adults study.

The study focused the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services’ (DMHAS) ability to carry out its mission related to alcohol and drug abuse treatment for adults, and its level of coordination and effectiveness of all publicly funded services in the state.

The House unanimously passed the bill and it is now headed to the Senate for a vote.