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HD 5168

A communication from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (see Section 30 of Chapter 285 of the Acts of 2024) submitting its “Report on the Plan to End Operations at the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASCAC)”

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Executive communicates plan to close Massachusetts state substance abuse treatment facility, affecting patient care continuity and state workforce during ongoing addiction crisis.

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Bill Summary · HD 5168

Legislative bill overview

This bill transmits the Executive Office of Health and Human Services' report on closing the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASCAC). The communication details the plan and timeline for ending operations at this state substance abuse treatment facility.

Why is this important

MASCAC is a publicly-funded treatment facility serving individuals with alcohol and substance use disorders. The closure affects current patients who need continuity of care, state employees at the facility, and the overall capacity of Massachusetts' substance abuse treatment infrastructure during a period of continued opioid and addiction crisis.

Potential points of contention

  • Patient transition planning: Whether adequate alternative treatment placements and resources exist for current MASCAC patients, and whether the transition timeline allows sufficient notice
  • Workforce impacts: Job losses for state employees and whether severance, retraining, or relocation assistance is provided
  • Service gap: Whether closing a state facility reduces treatment capacity or access for uninsured/underinsured patients who may rely on public programs
  • Cost implications: Whether closure saves money or shifts costs to other state agencies or facilities handling increased demand

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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