New Rhode Island Law Changes Name Of 'Drug Court' To 'Recovery Court'

PROVIDENCE, RI — A new law has changed the name of the"Rhode Island Drug Court" to the "Rhode Island Recovery Court."

The bill to change the name was sponsored bystate Sen. David P. Tikoian, D-Smithfield, Lincoln and North Providence, and state Rep. Julie A. Casimiro, D-North Kingstown and Exeter.

“The term ‘drug court’ reinforces a stigma that undermines our understanding of addiction as a serious health condition,” Tikoian said in a media release.

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“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,” Tikoian said.

“As our understanding of substance abuse disorders continues to grow, it is important to do away with outdated terminology that may get in the way of recovery efforts," Casimiro said in the release.

"Although some may think this is a small change, in the eyes of those who come before the court, this new name will afford them a sense of dignity that will help them during their recovery and rehabilitation journey," Casimiro said.

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