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H 2227

An Act replacing archaic and stigmatizing language for substance use

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill replacing stigmatizing substance use terminology with modern, recovery-focused language throughout state statutes and regulations to reduce treatment barriers.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 2227

Legislative bill overview

H 2227 replaces outdated and stigmatizing terminology related to substance use throughout Massachusetts state law and regulations with modern, person-centered language. The bill aims to align statutory language with current medical and public health standards that emphasize recovery and reduce shame-based terminology.

Why is this important

Language shapes public perception and can either facilitate or obstruct access to treatment and support services. Research indicates that stigmatizing terminology increases barriers to treatment-seeking, employment, and social reintegration for people with substance use disorders. Updating legal language signals a shift toward evidence-based policy and may reduce discrimination in healthcare and social services.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation scope uncertainty: The bill's specific language replacements are not detailed in available records, creating questions about which terms will be replaced, how comprehensively, and whether changes will be consistently applied across all state agencies
  • Cost and administrative burden: Updating regulatory language, training materials, and systems across multiple state departments requires resources, with unclear budget allocations or implementation timelines
  • Philosophical disagreements: Some stakeholders may resist language changes as unnecessary "political correctness," while others may argue the proposals don't go far enough or miss harmful terminology still embedded in statute

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

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