News & Media
Join MSMS and the Michigan Overdose Prevention Coalition in Advocating for Harm Reduction
Please join the Michigan Overdose Prevention Coalition (MOPC) for a Harm Reduction Lobby Day. On October 12th, harm reduction advocates are invited to educate legislators in Lansing or virtually on the importance of policies and initiatives to prevent overdose deaths.
Lobby Day efforts will focus on legislation relating to naloxone and syringe access. MSMS has joined MOPC in supporting bi-partisan legislation in both the Michigan House and Senate Health Policy Committees to advance harm reduction efforts and overdose prevention in the state. House Bill 5166 and Senate Bill 578 would expand Michigan’s naloxone standing order to allow community-based organizations access to the lifesaving overdose reversal drug. In addition, legislation is expected to be introduced any day to update state law as it relates to syringe service programs (SSPs) and to clarify that equipment provided by SSPs is not considered drug paraphernalia under state or local law.
In preparation for Advocacy Day, RWC Advocacy, with support from Public Sector Consultants, will provide a virtual training on October 5, 2021, from 3:00–4:30 PM. The training will give new participants a chance to hear from more-seasoned advocates and connect with peers to practice their talking points and conversation style in a supportive environment.
The training will include:
- Guest speakers
- Legislation overview
- Advocacy tips and tools to engage lawmakers
Register here.