An Act to establish a commission to study substance use disorder and treatment disparities in the minority community

This bill creates a new commission to investigate why substance use disorders and overdoses disproportionately affect minority communities in Massachusetts. The commission will review current data, evaluate existing treatment programs, and identify obstacles such as a lack of culturally appropriate care or necessary resources. Its members include state health officials and eight individuals appointed by the governor to represent advocacy groups, community health centers, and diverse geographic areas. The group is required to submit an annual report with evidence-based recommendations to the state legislature aimed at reducing overdose deaths and improving access to treatment.