RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE TREATMENT AND RECOVERY ACT

Approved on December 16, 2020 by the KCBA Board of Trustees

WHEREAS, KCBA has a long and progressive history working on Drug Policy Reform;

WHEREAS, Drug laws and policies disproportionately impact low-income communities and people of color and contribute to a harmful system of racial discrimination;

WHEREAS, Substance Use Disorder is medically recognized and treatable;

WHEREAS, Substance Use Disorder has an effect on property crimes and other crimes;

NOW, THEREFORE, The King County Bar Association supports the Treatment and Recovery Act legislation that:

• Would expand substance use disorder treatment, recovery and education services; and
• Establish an advisory group to make recommendations regarding regional capacities and gaps, funding priorities and coordination, assessment and service standards, and personal use amounts; and
• Reduce penalties for personal use offenses from crimes to civil infractions with referral to a mandatory service assessment;

And other legislation, including any proposed amendments to the Treatment and recovery Act, that have as their goal the strengthening of our public health systems while reducing the role of police in lives of people of color, people affected by Substance Use Disorder, and low-income communities.