Bill > HR253

This resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission to establish a comprehensive task force and advisory committee focused on improving access to drug and alcohol treatment for substance use disorders. The resolution is motivated by alarming national and state-level statistics, including over 40 million people impacted by substance use disorders and 4,719 overdose deaths in Pennsylvania in 2023. The task force will consist of four legislative members, and the advisory committee will include representatives from various state departments, medical associations, law enforcement, recovery organizations, and healthcare providers, as well as individuals in recovery. The advisory committee's responsibilities include examining existing laws and policies, gathering information from previous hearings, soliciting stakeholder input, exploring prevention and intervention services, and identifying barriers to treatment. The committee will also welcome testimony from family members of individuals with substance use disorders and consider recommended changes to state laws that could improve treatment access, support long-term recovery, and reduce stigma. The task force is required to report its findings to legislative leaders within one year of the resolution's adoption, with the ultimate goal of developing strategies to enhance substance use disorder treatment in Pennsylvania.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=R&bn=253