BOSTON – On Thursday, Massachusetts Legislature passed House Bill 5143 in an effort to combat the opioid crisis and support individuals with substance use disorder (SUD).
According to the Department of Public Health, in 2023, there were 2,125 opioid-related deaths in Massachusetts. This was a 10% decrease from the record-high 2,357 opioid-related deaths that occurred in 2022.
Some highlights of the bill include expanding non-opioid pain medication options, establishing licensure for recovery coaches, improving access to opioid-reversal drugs like naloxone, and ensuring that individuals are not discriminated against for having a SUD.
State Sen. Brendan Crighton led negotiations on behalf of the Senate, and co-chaired the conference committee with State Rep. Adrian Madaro from East Boston.
“This comprehensive legislation will save lives across the Commonwealth,” Crighton said. “Thanks to the hard work and collaboration of a wide range of stakeholders, we have created a multi-pronged approach to bolstering care, encouraging recovery, and preventing overdose fatalities.”
State Rep. Jenny Armini also praised Crighton for his efforts, stating “I want to offer special thanks to Senator Crighton for his leadership and hard work on the conference committee, which was essential to advancing this compassionate and innovative approach to substance use disorder.”
State Rep. Dan Cahill described the bill as a “significant step toward combating the opioid crisis and improving the lives of residents across Massachusetts.”
“This bill will enhance access to life-saving treatments, provide critical support for people in recovery, and ensure that no one faces discrimination because of their substance use disorder. By expanding access to naloxone, improving pain management options, and creating a framework for licensed recovery coaches, we are giving people the tools they need to rebuild their lives and protect future generations,” Cahill explained.
After being passed by the Legislature, the bill will now head to Gov. Maura Healey’s desk for her signature.
