HARRISBURG, PA — A new law signed Monday night by Gov. Josh Shapiro is set to bolster transparency and accountability in Pennsylvania’s fight against substance misuse. The measure, sponsored by state Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, requires the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) to enhance its annual reporting to the General Assembly.
House Bill 640 updates the information that DDAP must include in its yearly report, which serves as a key tool for lawmakers to evaluate the state’s efforts in addressing addiction. The law is designed to ensure that programs are meeting defined performance benchmarks and that resources are directed where they are most needed.
Williams emphasized the importance of this update, noting that DDAP has become a central player in Pennsylvania’s response to the opioid crisis and broader substance use challenges. Over recent years, the department has deepened its partnerships with other state agencies, including the departments of Health, Corrections, and Human Services.
“Under this law, enhanced reporting allows the General Assembly to better assess program effectiveness, allocate resources where they are most needed and explore new strategies for addressing substance misuse, treatment and recovery,” Williams said.
In addition to helping lawmakers, the new law aims to improve engagement with the public, advocacy groups, and service providers. By providing clearer and more comprehensive data, officials hope to foster greater trust and more informed policy decisions.
Williams also pointed to concerns about national health policy shifts and stressed the need for robust, state-level data collection and program evaluation. “With uncertainties surrounding health initiatives and data collection on the federal level under a new administration that does not seem particularly concerned about those things, having the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs use performance benchmarks when evaluating how well programs work will lead to better policymaking in Pennsylvania, and perhaps in other states,” he said.
The bill received bipartisan support, reflecting widespread agreement on the need for stronger oversight and evidence-based approaches to substance use programs. Williams expressed gratitude to colleagues across both chambers and to Gov. Shapiro for moving the measure into law.
“My colleagues in the House and Senate provided crucial feedback to ensure bi-partisan support for this bill,” he said. “I’d like to thank everyone who was part of the process and Governor Shapiro for his approval and signature.”
The new reporting requirements take immediate effect, setting the stage for a more data-driven approach to one of the state’s most persistent public health challenges.
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