Being impacted by drug or alcohol use is not a crime, yet our community continues to uphold systems that criminalize addiction. This event will explore that reality through the lens of our current Section 35 system, by reviewing the Civil Commitment Process for individuals with Substance Use Disorders and proposed reforms. We will hear from legislators, advocates, attorneys, and physicians about their work advocating for necessary changes. In addition, those with lived experienced of the Section 35 process will share their insights into how their recovery was impacted by civil commitment. The discussion will also explore the ethical implications of civil commitments for providers and the power of medical legal advocacy partnerships. Content will also include tangible next steps we can all take in advocating for reform through the legislative process. 

The event will feature speakers:

• State Representative Ruth Balser
• Deborah Goldbarb, LICSW, NASW-MA Criminal Justice Committee Chair
• Alice Bukhman, MD, MPH
• Corey Cheney
• Ricardo Cruz, MD
• Tyshaun Perryman
• Bonnie Tenneriello

This event supports NASW-MA supported bill S.1285/H.2066, An Act Ensuring Access to Addiction Services

This event is free and worth 1 CEU. Register here.