Reps. Vander Veen, Sak, Stahl, Emmons, Kathleen Law, Zelenko, Accavitti, Baxter, Bieda, Booher, Byrnes, Caul, Condino, Cushingberry, Elsenheimer, Gillard, Gonzales, Gosselin, Hopgood, Jones, Kooiman, LaJoy, Lemmons, Jr., Lipsey, Marleau, Mayes, Meyer, Miller, Palsrok, Pearce, Polidori, Shaffer, Spade, Stakoe, Stewart, Tobocman, Anderson, Brown, Byrum, Clack, Gleason, Green, Hansen, Mortimer, Nitz, Nofs, Palmer, Proos, Rocca, Waters and Farrah offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 302.

A resolution designating September 2006 as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, Seventy-four percent of Americans say that addiction to alcohol has had some impact on them at some point in their lives, either through their own personal addiction or that of a friend or family member; and

Whereas, Sixty-three percent of Americans also say that addiction to either drugs or alcohol has had a great deal or some impact on their lives; and

Whereas, Stigma and discrimination can create obstacles that prevent treatment. There can be a mark of disgrace associated with substance use disorders that limits access to those who need a treatment facilities, and for those who want to reestablish their place in the community by entering the workforce; and

Whereas, Educating our state about how substance use disorders affect children, families, and all Michigan citizens is essential to overcoming stigma and discrimination; and

Whereas, We must recognize the achievement of those who seek out treatment services and ensure that such services are readily available to those who need assistance; and

Whereas, Substance use disorders are a treatable, yet serious health care problem. We can take steps to address it and build a stronger, healthier community; and

Whereas, To help achieve this goal, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, and the Michigan Bureau of Substance Abuse and Addiction Services invite all residents of Michigan to participate in National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body designate September 2006 as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in the state of Michigan and help promote the theme, “Join the Voices for Recovery: Build a Stronger, Healthier Community.”