The problems related to substance abuse and addictions may seem overwhelming, but, together, and individually, we can make a difference. Every effort, even the smallest, will raise awareness, increase the focus, help reduce the stigma, and change Maine for the better.

How can you help?

• Learn about substance abuse related issues and laws in Maine and in the nation so that you are an informed advocate. MASAP, MAPP and MAAR will help provide you with timely and relevant information.

• Get your facts straight about alcohol.Available on the Marin Institute's Web site are a new series of Fact Sheets for advocates and others seeking information about today's most pressing alcohol issues. Topics include adult accountability, marketing to youth, and second-hand effect of alcohol use. 

• Start by telling your story. Talk about recovery and how you achieved it. Describe the situation in your community and the kinds of barriers that prevent many people from getting treatment. People rarely see the faces of recovering alcoholics and addicts. They need to see first hand that treatment works.
• Start by talking with one person or a small group. Expand your audience as you become comfortable speaking. Speak publicly or privately with your city council, your state government, legislators and other officials.
• Write letters to your local newspaper responding to an issue such as service reductions, access to treatment and recovery issues, quality of care issues.
• Write an op-ed piece on relevant topics such as expanding insurance coverage for the treatment of addiction and alcoholism. Many community leaders read the editorial pages to assess public opinion.
• Write letters or emails to your elected officials in Maine and in Washington, DC.
• Visit your legislator. Establish a relationship with your Senator or Representative. They rely on Maine individuals for policy suggestions, feedback and information.
• Help to organize awareness and educational events on the local and/or state level through MASAP, MAPP and MAAR.
• Attend public hearings. Testify. Follow the process of substance abuse legislation closely. Be prepared to provide written or verbal testimony so that your voice is heard.
• Become involved in the Maine Association of Prevention programs.
• Become involved in the development of a local chapter of MAAR in your community. Being visible in your community has an effect on how people think about the impact of substance abuse.
• Participate in the Annual MASAP Legislative Day at the Hall of Flags, Maine State Capitol on Tuesday, February 12, 2008.  
  

For more information on how you can get involved, please contact us.

MASAP Legislative Agenda 2007-2008

• Ensure that the Office of Substance Abuse (OSA) continues as Maine's single state agency and functions effectively and efficiently, focusing on evidence based practice and the highest quality of services to increase access, increase retention and success in treatment, and promote recovery.
• Reduce addiction and substance abuse in Maine by appropriately funding accesible, quality prevention, treatment and recovery support services
• Advocate for effective alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent, non-repeat drug offenses
• Evaluate and make recommendations regarding the proposed State Health Plan and the new APS Behavioral Health ASO to ensure appropriate, effective focus on Substance Abuse prevention, treatment and recovery support .
• Recommend adoption of a Maine consumer fee on alcohol to supplement funding for substance abuse and addictions prevention and treatment

Governor John E. Baldacci and MASAP Board President, Bob Long at the MASAP Legislative Day

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