State Advocacy

ASAM is proud to partner with its 40 independent State Chapters to advance access to high- quality, evidence-based addiction treatment. On a diverse set of issues ranging from mental health and addiction parity to pharmacy regulation, ASAM State Chapters are instrumental in shaping policy conversations in state capitols across the country.

marijuana-1920

Guiding Cannabis Conversations

Cannabis use for medical purposes, or use by adults for any purpose, is top of mind for many state legislators, and numerous ASAM State Chapters are leading efforts to ensure state cannabis policies are science-based and protect public health. ASAM cautions against the inclusion of OUD or any other SUD as a qualifying condition for approved medical use of cannabis, and instead supports more research into the potential therapeutic uses of cannabis. Read More>>> 

Parity

Increasing Enforcement of Mental Health and Addiction Parity 

State Chapter advocacy complements ASAM’s federal advocacy to ensure mental health and addiction treatment services are covered on par with medical and surgical services by both public and private payers and are not subject to arbitrary limits or unfair utilization controls. Read more>>>

iStock-1090431444

Reducing Harms Related to Drug Use and Punitive Drug Policies 

ASAM State Chapters frequently advocate for policies that minimize the health harms of drug use such as the transmission of infectious disease, as well as the negative health effects of punitive drug policies. Read more>>>

Focus Areas

Quick Links

Advocacy Toolkits

ASAM provides toolkits to help you advocate for public policies that advance addiction medicine and promote access to treatment

Legislative Tracker

Follow the latest federal and state bills and regulations that affect addiction medicine practice

ASAM Advocacy Roadmap

Coming soon!