For substance-abuse disorders, many individuals required to receive treatment through the criminal legal system there is no option to receive the treatment they need. Too often, individuals are required by the state to participate in religious programs that conflict with their beliefs and can hinder successful treatment. Providing them with effective, evidence-based substance use disorder treatment is vital to recovery.
Inclusive and Accessible Recovery Options Secular Recovery Bill Talking PointsNY Assemblymember Harvey Epstein shares his groundbreaking legislation, A08163, which would ensure that anyone mandated to attend recovery meetings is informed of their right to nonreligious options, and provided with those options if requested. While individuals have a well established constitutional right to a secular recovery option, too often individuals in recovery are burdened with the responsibility to advocate for their rights. This bill shifts the burden of protecting First Amendment rights from the defendant to the state.