Legislative Priorities

 PreventEd acknowledges that the most effective approach to combat substance use disorder is to proactively prevent it from occurring. By allocating dedicated funding to school and community-based prevention programs, we can efficiently curb the rising prevalence of substance use. PreventEd will outline primary prevention strategies and advocate for local, state, and federal governments to invest in and maintain funding for these crucial initiatives. 

PreventEd supports policies and practices that prioritize a public health approach to prevent, intervene early in, and treat substance use. This includes models such as court diversion programs, behavioral health care centers, and widespread use of community health workers. PreventEd advocates for expanding the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) workforce and supporting their career development. 

PreventEd will continue to advocate for policies that ensure Missouri’s medical and adult-use cannabis programs are implemented transparently and prioritize public health. PreventEd will also continue to monitor Missouri’s adult-use cannabis regulations to mitigate the risks and negative impacts of increased cannabis availability on young people. Consistent messaging and education are essential to inform youth about the risks associated with cannabis. 

PreventEd supports legislation aimed at preventing the onset of opioid misuse by fostering community and individual resilience and addressing risk factors. As the opioid crisis continues to evolve, PreventEd will monitor data to support policies that eliminate discriminatory practices, expand treatment options, and reduce harm for individuals with substance use disorders. PreventEd will continue to advocate for inclusive prevention, treatment, and recovery strategies funded through Opioid Settlement Agreements. The funding process should be transparent, with resources allocated across the entire continuum of care to ensure a comprehensive approach. 

PreventEd supports legislation that limits minors’ exposure to cigarette, cigar, and hookah smoke, as well as vapor from e-cigarettes and vaporizers, and provides clear guidelines for vendors. Although the federal government has enacted a nationwide Tobacco 21 policy, Missouri law currently permits purchases at age 18, including mandatory signage at retailers, which can be confusing. 

 PreventEd supports policies that educate youth about alcohol and reduce their access to it. This includes stricter penalties for selling or serving alcohol to minors, deterring caregivers from providing alcohol, preventing minors’ access to easily concealable and misused products like powdered alcohol, and increasing alcohol excise taxes.