 |
|
4/9/2026
|
Senate passes Tikoian bill renaming drug court to ‘recovery court’
|
STATE HOUSE — The Senate on Tuesday passed legislation (2026-S 3099) introduced by Senate Majority Whip David P. Tikoian that would change the name of the state’s drug court to the “recovery court.”
“The term ‘drug court’ reinforces a stigma that undermines our understanding of addiction as a serious health condition,” said Senator Tikoian (D-Dist. 22, Smithfield, Lincoln, North Providence). “The term ‘recovery court’ is more in line with the state’s goal of bringing stability to the lives of those who suffer from addiction, focusing on recovery rather than punishment.”
Sarah Kelly-Palmer, chief of behavioral health for Family Service of Rhode Island, testified in favor of the legislation, telling the Senate Judiciary Committee, “We work closely with individuals involved in the justice system and see firsthand how recovery-focused language can reduce stigma, encourage participation in treatment, and foster long-term positive outcomes. The proposed name change aligns with best practices in behavioral health and supports Rhode Island’s continued progress toward a recovery-oriented system of care.”
Joseph A. Montalbano, presiding justice of the Rhode Island Superior Court, and Jeanne E. LaFazia, chief judge of Rhode Island District Court, also testified in favor of the bill.
The measure now moves to the House of Representatives where similar legislation (2026-H 8247) has been introduced by Rep. Julie Casimiro (D-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter).
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
|
|