Legislation seeking to address the statewide opioid crisis that had strong support by the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference was recently signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf.
Senate Bill 446, now Act 59 of 2017, will establish state-regulated minimum quality standards for the licensure of recovery houses receiving funding or referrals from the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs or another state, federal or county agency.
In a statement issued by the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Tom McGarrigle (R-Chester\Delaware) said, “The addiction crisis is affecting communities in every region of Pennsylvania, and access to effective treatment is vital in turning the tide. People entering the recovery process have taken the crucial first step to a better, productive life. Approval of Senate Bill 446 sends the message that we will not let that journey be cut short due to lack of oversight.”
This new law is welcomed by the recovery houses operated by many Catholic Charities agencies within Pennsylvania’s Catholic dioceses. This is one of several important bills being considered by the General Assembly and monitored by the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference to combat the growing epidemic of opioid abuse.
