Statement of Mayor Martin J. Walsh on Substance Abuse and Recovery Legislation

Today, the House of Representatives and the Senate passed legislation that will change the way we address and treat substance abuse in Massachusetts.

Every day, I interact with families who have lost loved ones to addiction. Substance abuse does not discriminate – it impacts our family members, our neighbors, our friends.

Throughout my career and life, I have advocated for a more thoughtful and comprehensive drug treatment structure that acknowledges the complexities of addiction. The legislation passed today creates a continuum of care that addresses the various stages of the recovery process, and requires insurers to cover treatment services delivered by licensed alcohol and drug counselors – a key provision in a bill that I was proud to file myself in the Legislature years ago.

I sincerely thank my partners in the Massachusetts Legislature for their leadership on an issue that is close to my heart and I urge Governor Patrick to sign this into law.