Act now to pass the overdose prevention center bill
Take action to override the Governor’s veto of H.72 and pass this life-saving bill.
Help us pass H.72!
On May 30, 2024, Governor Scott vetoed H.72, a bill to create and fund an overdose prevention center in Vermont, despite the copious evidence that these centers save lives, improve outcomes, and are supported by the community.
Vermont’s state legislature meets for a veto override session on June 17, 2024.
You can help pass this bill: urge your legislators to vote YES on H.72.
Resources:
See how your legislators voted on H.72:
Overdose prevention centers save lives. Period.
Decades of research show us that OPCs are tremendously effective: they reduce public drug use and litter, help connect people with treatment and services, and don’t result in an increase in crime. Most importantly, they reverse what could be fatal overdoses and improve health outcomes by preventing infections and other serious health complications.
Join the Vermonters advocating for H.72
H.72 and OPCs are endorsed by:
Hundreds of Vermonters representing over 70 municipalities across the state.
Dozens of Vermont organizations, including addiction treatment and recovery professionals, medical professionals, homelessness service providers, business leaders, and family members who have lost loved ones to overdose.
Vermont’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Levine.
Leadership of the pilot site, Burlington, including the Mayor (current and prior), City Council President (current and prior), the Chief of Police, and the Fire Chief.
OPCs are also the top recommendation of the Vermont Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee. This is significant as 100% of funding for H.72 comes from opioid settlement funds.
Make sure your legislators hear from YOU before June 17, 2024.
Sample message:
Dear [Legislator],
As one of your constituents, I thank you for your service to Vermont.
Overdose prevention centers (OPCs) are a critical intervention that save lives, and must be central to strategies for preventing deaths in Vermont. Studies have consistently shown that OPCs are highly effective for preventing deaths, improving access to supportive services, and enhancing quality of life in communities. The success of centers in New York and progress in Rhode Island have demonstrated what is possible. Vermont leaders must step up to make this possible now.
I personally strongly support H.72 because [your message here].
At the June veto session, please vote to override the Governor’s veto and pass H.72 into law.
Sincerely,
[your name here]
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With gratitude and solidarity,
Decriminalize Vermont
“Governor Scott’s veto of this bill represents a loss of nerve with regard to harm reduction, one final obstacle for all of us who are committed to exploring every possible path to accelerate the end of the opioid crisis.”