Tell State Lawmakers Support Overdose Prevention Centers

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Overdose prevention centers save lives, increase access to harm-reduction methods, and link people to treatment. That's why the ACLU of Massachusetts and our partners support H.1981/S.1242, which would authorize cities and towns to establish overdose prevention centers if they wish to do so.

Urge your state lawmakers to support overdose prevention centers!

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Your State Senator
Your State Representative

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Subject

As your constituent, I’m deeply concerned about the overdose crisis that’s raging throughout our communities. According to DPH data, a crushing 2,357 Massachusetts residents lost their lives to opioid-related overdose deaths in 2022 — the highest number ever recorded.

I urge you to support legislation to authorize municipalities to set up overdose prevention centers and save lives.

Message Body

"An Act relative to preventing overdose deaths and increasing access to treatment", filed by Representatives Fernandes, Decker, and Senator Cyr (H.1981 | S.1242), would give municipalities that are looking for new harm reduction tools the authority to establish overdose prevention centers where people who use drugs can do so safely, in a supportive environment without legal repercussions.

A statewide poll shows that 70 percent of voters support this bill, with majority support among Democrats, Independents, and Republicans. Likewise, a broad coalition of medical experts, providers, advocates, and bereaved family members have voiced their strong support for this bill. 
 
Overdose prevention centers are proven to save lives, reduce harms related to drug use, and connect people to essential treatment and recovery support services. They should be a vital part of the state’s harm reduction strategy.

Rhode Island and Minnesota have already enacted legislation authorizing overdose prevention centers to reduce overdose deaths in those states.  Here in Massachusetts, several communities are interested in opening overdose prevention sites, but we need this legislation to establish the legal framework for them to operate successfully.

Despite the state’s efforts, 6 people die of drug overdose in Massachusetts *every day* — but every drug overdose is preventable. Already successful in more than 100 locations around the world, including New York City, we know that overdose prevention centers save lives.

Please support H.1981/S.1242 to establish overdose prevention centers in Massachusetts!

Sincerely,

[First Name] [Last Name]

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Tell State Lawmakers Support Overdose Prevention Centers

Act Now

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