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Bill

HB 5879

AN ACT CONCERNING A MODEL CURRICULUM FOR PREVENTION OF OPIOID USE AND RELATED DISORDERS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John-Michael Parker

Connecticut develops a model opioid prevention curriculum for schools to reduce youth substance abuse and increase treatment awareness statewide.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Education
#drugabuseprevention #educationdepartment #schoolcurriculum
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Bill Summary · HB 5879

Legislative bill overview

HB 5879 directs Connecticut to develop a model curriculum for opioid use prevention and related disorder education that schools can implement. The bill establishes guidelines for teaching students about opioid risks, addiction, and treatment options as part of health education programs. This model curriculum would serve as a template that local school districts could adopt or adapt for their students.

Why is this important

Opioid addiction remains a significant public health crisis affecting Connecticut communities, with overdose deaths continuing to impact families and youth. Evidence-based prevention education in schools can reduce substance abuse initiation rates and increase awareness of treatment resources. Providing schools with a standardized curriculum model increases the likelihood of consistent, quality opioid prevention messaging across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Schools may face budgetary constraints in implementing new curricula, including teacher training and curriculum materials
  • Curriculum content scope: Debate may arise over what specific content should be included (e.g., abstinence-only versus harm reduction messaging, medication-assisted treatment discussion)
  • Age-appropriateness: Questions about what grade levels should receive which educational components and how to tailor messaging for different developmental stages

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

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