By C1 Staff
NEWARK — Governor Jack Markell recently outlined a proposal for increased public treatment and recovery services in Delaware.
Delaware.gov reports that 185 citizens in the state died from suspected overdoses last year.
Markell wants to increase withdrawal management services statewide in order to match services to individuals’ needs. A new detox clinic is scheduled to open June 1 in Harrington.
He also wants to double the number of sober living residential beds statewide from 60 to 120. A focus on long-term recovery for young people was also a key point of his proposal, along with increasing accessibility to residential treatment programs statewide.
Markell’s proposal would support efforts already underway, including a newly launched site that features prevention information and tips for parents and teens.
DOC Commissioner Robert Coupe approved of the governor’s proposal, saying that offenders with histories of drug abuse who re-enter the community have a greater risk of recidivism.
“The governor’s proposal to strengthen community-based drug treatment services represents the kind of bold commitment Delaware needs to provide a cost-effective alternative to incarceration, support those who suffer from addiction, and give them the helping hand they desperately need to achieve and maintain their sobriety,” he said.