The Virginia Association of Addiction Professionals (VAAP), is committed to advocating for meaningful changes that enhance the lives of individuals affected by addiction. Over the past legislative year, we have made significant strides in several key areas and have ambitious plans for the future. Below are the highlights of our recent advocacy efforts and an outline of our upcoming initiatives for 2024.
Recent Highlights:
- Barrier Crimes Reform: In collaboration with SAARA, VAAP, the VRC, and other advocacy groups, we successfully reduced the waiting period for eligibility for waiver review of several barrier crimes from 5 to 4 years. This progress, although small, is a significant step forward.
- Recovery Residence Reporting: Through the dedicated efforts of VAAP Board member Chrissy Chow, the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation requiring DBHDS-certified Recovery Residences to report serious incidents to DBHDS, enhancing accountability within the system.
- Compliance Monitor for Recovery Residences: Our advocacy led to the hiring of Tiffani Wells as the Recovery Residence Compliance Monitor by DBHDS. This role ensures oversight of the certification compliance for DBHDS-certified Recovery Residences, furthering our commitment to accountability.
Looking Ahead:
Barrier Crimes Reform: Building on past successes, SAARA, VAAP, and other organizations aim to meet with DBHDS representatives to explore more comprehensive changes to Virginia’s barrier crimes landscape. This meeting will help outline a plan for further reforms in 2024-2025.
Enhancing Recovery Residences Certification Standards: VAAP plans to collaborate with DBHDS to elevate Virginia’s Recovery Residence certification standards, aiming to establish independent and meaningful standards.
NAADAC Hill Day: NAADAC’s Annual Conference and Hill Day will be held in Washington, DC, in October 2024. This event provides an excellent opportunity to enhance advocacy skills, network with fellow advocates, and participate in legislative efforts on The Hill.
Virginia Hill Day: Led by VAAP Board Member Chrissy Chow, VAAP plans to launch its own Hill Day targeting the Virginia General Assembly in February 2025. Stay tuned for more details.
Growing VAAP Advocacy:
The VAAP Advocacy Committee has grown to eight members strong! We invite all professionals and advocates to join us in shaping a better environment for our colleagues and improving outcomes for our clients. If you are interested in joining, please contact Chuck Wilcox, VAAP Advocacy Board Chair, at cwilcox@vaaddictionpros.org.
Your involvement matters!