As a person in recovery, family member, or supporter of recovery I am signing this support statement today to be counted towards reforming policies impacting justice involved and re-entry individuals.

Many people in recovery or people who use substances get caught up in a costly and harmful criminal justice system. Rejecting harmful practices for justice involved individuals, especially policies that disproportionately impact Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) can lead to investing in equity-based resources for all and create pathways to recovery and healing. Having resources upon reentry into communities is also critical to creating healthy communities and supporting paths to recovery.

I am advocating for policies that divert individuals from the justice system early on, and investing in support services in our communities will save dollars and lives in Texas. Policies across the country are reflecting this shift to taking a compassionate approach, and treating addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal issue.

I support the following legislative solutions (and their companion Bills)

Senate Bill 944​ allows use of medication in custody of law enforcement.

House Bill 1178​ removes criminal penalties for the possession of drug paraphernalia under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

House Bill 2793​ addresses parole determination and individual treatment plans for justice involved populations.

These bills were identified after listening to people in the recovery community!