Positions and Advocacy

Elevating the voices of Virginia’s addiction professional is an important VAAP goal.
This page serves as a platform to publish VAAP positions and to permit members to submit positions for consideration. Whether we’re responding to legislation, sharing principles that shape our work, or amplifying issues that matter to our members, VAAP remains committed to thoughtful, mission-aligned leadership in the field of addiction services.

VAAP Position Statements

Adopted May 15th, 2025:
Links to full statements: 

Summaries:

Barrier Crimes: VAAP calls for reform of Virginia’s barrier crimes law, which disqualifies individuals with certain criminal backgrounds from working in the recovery field. As many of these individuals bring lived experience and unique value, the policy is a major obstacle to workforce development and equity in recovery services.

Recovery Capital: VAAP affirms that investing in recovery capital, such as housing, employment, relationships, and purpose, not only improves individual outcomes but also strengthens families, communities, and systems. The organization calls for policies that build, not undermine, these critical supports.

Recovery Residences: VAAP supports consistent and accountable certification standards for recovery residences across Virginia. The organization urges DBHDS to adopt stronger incident reporting, inspection protocols, and public transparency to ensure safe, ethical environments for individuals in recovery.

Submitting a Position Statement

VAAP invites its members to contribute to the dialogue that shapes our field. Through our Position Statement process, members can propose thoughtful stances on issues related to substance use disorder treatment, recovery, policy, and professional practice. These may be advocacy-focused or reflect broader principles aligned with our mission and values.

How It Works:

  1. Submit Your Proposal:
    Complete the Request for VAAP to Adopt a Position Statement form, including your proposed statement, background context, and rationale.

  2. Board Review – Phase 1:
    The VAAP Board will review the submission to ensure it aligns with our mission, vision, and values. If approved for further consideration, the draft statement will move to the next stage.

  3. Member Feedback:
    The proposed statement will be posted on the NAADAC Virginia Community page for member review and comment.

  4. Board Review – Final Decision:
    After the comment period closes, the Board will review all feedback and make a final determination on whether to formally adopt the position.

Ready to Propose a Statement?

A clear and concise name for the proposed position (e.g. "VAAP Support for Recovery Capital").
Provide a brief overview of the position you're recommending.
Share context and rationale, including how this position aligns with VAAP’s mission, vision, and values.
Include relevant data, evidence, or reasoning that supports your position.
How would adopting this position impact the VAAP community or external stakeholders?

Our Advocacy Work

VAAP is committed to advancing recovery-oriented policies and supporting the professionals who serve individuals impacted by substance use disorder. Our advocacy efforts focus on ensuring ethical, accessible, and effective treatment options across Virginia.

We work in partnership with NAADAC and other state and national organizations to monitor legislation, advocate for funding and support for providers, and elevate the voices of addiction professionals in public discourse.

What We Do:

  • Monitor and respond to legislation impacting SUD treatment and recovery

  • Educate policymakers on the value of evidence-based care and harm reduction

  • Empower members to engage in advocacy at the local, state, and national levels

  • Collaborate with coalitions and stakeholders to drive systemic change

Advocacy updates are included in our monthly VAAP Views newsletter. Be sure to read them and stay informed!