Bill from Reps. Griffey, Couture would streamline Involuntary Treatment Act to help local governments address drug crisis
CONTACT: Hanna Scott, Public Information Officer | 360-968-3938
Bill from Reps. Griffey, Couture would streamline Involuntary Treatment Act to help local governments address drug crisis
As the drug crisis continues to grip Washington state, 35th District representatives have filed legislation to help expand treatment capacity and save lives.
“Washington has seen a dramatic change on the streets of communities across the state over the past decade as the drug crisis has escalated, leading to countless tragedies for families across Washington,” said Rep. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn. “Our state has failed to make even a dent in the problem. This bill offers a right and real solution for those suffering the most in this crisis who are dangerous to themselves and others.”
“Last year, nearly 3,600 people in our state overdosed in Washington state,” said Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn. “That is a 14% increase from the previous year and the numbers continue to grow. Sadly, many of those in the throes of addiction die needlessly, and, unfortunately, many are a danger to not just themselves, but others. We have to get serious about this crisis.”
Soaring substance use rates have served as a leading contributor to increases in crime and homelessness which is plaguing communities throughout our state.
House Bill 1787 requires the Legislature to fully implement standards of SB 5720, passed in 2020, which would change the criteria to meet the threshold under Washington’s Involuntary Treatment Act. This change allows civil holds for treatment in secure detox facilities for those struggling with such extreme substance use order that they are considered an immediate danger to the community or themselves.
Part of the problem is the lack of secure detox facilities and beds to meet the needs of all communities across the state.
House Bill 1787 aims to double the state’s capacity of secure detox beds in communities most impacted by the drug crisis with additional funding for new treatment facilities.
“People all across the state drive through their communities and see the damage this crisis is causing on a daily basis, and they wonder what the state is doing about it,” explained Griffey. “This is what we do about it. We take away the keys for a minute and provide an essential program where those in need can recover. Then, we return the keys when they are ready to take the wheel again. We are not going to just stand here while people are dying.”
“Washingtonians are tired of feeling like we are losing this battle,” said Couture. “We can do something about it. As the ranking Republican on the House Appropriations Committee, I am very aware we are in a tough budget year. But this is – and has been – an urgent crisis, and it is time we respond with the sense of urgency required. We can’t afford to wait.”
House Bill 1787 has been referred to the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee, where it awaits a hearing date.
