Governor Signs Substance Abuse Bill
Governor Abigail Spanberger yesterday signed bipartisan legislation to support Virginians struggling with substance abuse and take steps to make sure they can receive the help they deserve.
In Abingdon, the Governor joined state and local leaders, healthcare providers, and families impacted by substance abuse to sign Senate Bill 608 and Senate Bill 641 — led by Senator Todd Pillion — into law. The legislation creates a pathway for people in recovery to serve as peer recovery specialists and makes sure that patients being treated for opioid addiction can get the medication they need.
“Substance use disorder has touched virtually every community in Virginia — and in this region, the impact has been particularly deep and particularly painful,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “I’m proud to join Senator Pillion, advocates, and families who have faced these challenges to sign two important bills today — one that puts peer recovery specialists to work helping others find their way, and one that makes sure patients can get the medication-assisted treatment they need without unnecessary obstacles in their path.”
“This is another important step toward delivering real outcomes for our neighbors and family members who have struggled with substance use disorder,” said Senator Todd Pillion. “Long before my service in the General Assembly, I witnessed firsthand the toll this crisis took on our community. That experience is why I have spent more than a decade working to pass legislation focused on substance use disorder treatment, recovery, and prevention programs. I remain committed to advancing solutions that heal families, restore lives, and strengthen communities across the Commonwealth.”
The Governor also celebrated the opening of Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Center’s new expansion facility to connect more Virginians in the region with affordable and reliable dental care.
“My administration will stand shoulder to shoulder with Southwest Virginia as we work to expand access to high-quality, affordable healthcare for more families,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “When dental care is out of reach, people suffer in ways that go far beyond their teeth. This center will make a difference in the lives of so many Virginians — for underserved families, for adults who can’t afford traditional care, and for individuals in recovery who deserve every tool available to them as they rebuild their lives.”
Earlier on Thursday in Wise, Governor Spanberger delivered remarks at the Southwest Virginia Economic Forum, underscoring her commitment to bringing together business leaders, educators, and community members to grow Virginia’s economy and set up the next generation of Virginians for success. The Governor highlighted the recent launch of her Administration’s statewide economic development tour focused on hearing directly from leaders in local communities about the challenges they face and the more than $4.7 billion in new business investment she has announced since taking office in January.
