Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has launched a new Advisory Council on Substance Use. This initiative is part of her efforts to address the opioid crisis and support affected families and communities in Massachusetts.
"Far too many families in communities across Massachusetts have felt the profound and devastating impacts of the opioid crisis," said Campbell. Her office aims to combat drug effects by holding pharmaceutical manufacturers accountable, prosecuting drug traffickers, and now, launching this council. The council aims to guide the fight against substance use with the help of experts and individuals with firsthand experience.
The council will focus on policy work related to substance use, treatment, harm reduction, and legal protections for those in recovery. It will collaborate with community organizations and address emerging issues. Through diverse expertise, it will amplify the voices of those affected by the opioid epidemic.
Dr. William Soares, Emergency and Addiction Medicine Physician at Baystate Medical Center, expressed honor in joining the council. "Through my work in emergency and addiction medicine, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic," he said, commending the Attorney General's leadership.
Gabriel Quaglia of Folding Chair Project and SADOD expressed happiness in joining the council, emphasizing that people who use drugs are often unheard. "Councils such as this give people who are too often forgotten a voice," Quaglia stated.
Mark Jachym, Medical Respite Program Manager and Harm Reduction Coordinator for Clinical Support Options, highlighted his personal experiences with substance use. He noted the meaningfulness of his role in the council, driven by his journey.
The council held its first meeting on April 14th, 2025, and will continue to meet regularly. Members were selected for their expertise, community connections, and dedication to supporting those with substance use disorders.
AG Campbell's recent actions against the opioid crisis also include a $7.4 billion settlement with the Sackler family and Purdue Pharma. Up to $108 million of these funds will go toward Massachusetts' treatment, prevention, and recovery efforts.
Erika Hensel, Project Manager for Opioid Response, will manage the council's activities.