Baker Signs Opioid Abuse Prevention Bill Into Law

By Alison Bauter, Patch Staff

BOSTON, MA - Flanked by sheriffs, lawmakers, advocates, healthcare providers and substance abuse survivors, Gov. Charlie Baker signed into law a bill intended to stem the tide of opioid abuse in Massachusetts.

"We all recognize this legislation will not bring your loved ones back," state Attorney General Maura Healey said, choking up. "But we hope you know this legislation will save lives in the future ... for the sake of those who have gone before, for the sake of those who are struggling now, for the stake of future generations."

The bill is meant to empower doctors, patients and educators to prevent potential addiction before it begins, through new regulations and education.

Among other steps, it establishes a one-week limit for initial painkiller prescriptions, lets patients opt to fill only part of their prescriptions, and implements screenings in schools to catch abuse at a young age.

Baker promised more legislation addressing the epidemic would no doubt come.

Most provisions in the bill take effect Monday, with select exceptions.

The bill moved quickly last week. A joint Senate and House of Representatives committee drafted what became the final bill, passed unanimously Wednesday by the House and carried easily through the Senate Thursday.

The support underscores the importance of the law's success.

"As good as the law is, it's about implementation and follow-through," Healey said.

Photo by Alison Bauter, Patch Staff