May. 02, 2016
HARRISBURG—Legislation sponsored by Rep. John Taylor (R-Philadelphia) to help students who are struggling with drug addiction has passed the House.
House Bill 1827 would establish a four-year pilot recovery high school program for students in recovery from substance abuse.
“When students with drug problems return to their previous high schools following substance abuse treatment they are much more likely to relapse than those in schools specifically designed to provide the assistance, support and intervention,” Taylor said. “That’s why recovery schools are so important and this pilot recovery school program is critical. It would give these young students a support system so they can get their lives back on the right track and become productive and successful members of their communities and of our workforce.”
Currently, there are 35 recovery high schools in 15 states that are recognized by the Association of Recovery Schools.
In February, Taylor visited Bridge Way, a recovery school in Roxborough that is an alternative to traditional public school. Through positive peer encouragement, on-site intervention support services, and an academic curricula designed for students recovering from addiction, it helps students in ninth through 12th grades by providing an academic environment that requires, supports and honors sobriety.
“Bridge Way is showing how it can be done,” Taylor said. “We need to build on what they’ve accomplished.”
Taylor has been holding community meetings throughout the 177th District to help parents understand the tools available to help family members recover from drug addiction.
House Bill 1827 now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Representative John Taylor
177th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: David Foster
267.207.0207
dfoster@pahousegop.com
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