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Bill

Bill

SCR 15

Relative to Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Umberg

California designates an official Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month to raise awareness of addiction treatment services and support recovery initiatives.

Chaptered by Secretary of State. Res. Chapter 16, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · SCR 15

Legislative bill overview

SCR 15 designates a specific month in California as Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month to raise awareness and recognition of treatment services and recovery support. The resolution passed both chambers unanimously and was chaptered into law in March 2025. This is a ceremonial measure that does not appropriate funds or create new regulatory requirements.

Why is this important

Designating an official awareness month provides a platform for treatment providers, recovery organizations, and public health agencies to coordinate messaging and visibility around substance use disorder services. Given California's ongoing opioid and addiction crises, symbolic commitments can help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek treatment during a concentrated awareness period.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Critics may argue that awareness months without accompanying funding or policy changes have limited real-world impact on treatment access or outcomes
  • Resource allocation: Some may question whether state legislative effort is better spent on resolutions versus bills that directly expand treatment capacity, funding, or services
  • Month selection and politics: The choice of which month receives this designation could reflect political preferences or advocacy priorities over epidemiological data about when treatment demand peaks

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

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