The Acts of Convention

Resolved, That the 80th General Convention urge all dioceses and parishes in The Episcopal Church to include www.generalconvention.org/sites/opioid-task-force on websites and encourage training, advocacy, and pastoral care resources for individuals, families, and communities affected by opioid addiction; and be it further

Resolved, That dioceses and parishes designate persons within their region to be trained as Recovery Allies, encourage Naloxone training for members, and disseminate the SAMSHA Toolkit (available on website) to clergy and lay leaders; and be it further

Resolved, That the 80th General Convention direct the Office of Government Relations of The Episcopal Church to continue advocacy for the federal government of the United States to address this as public health crisis, affirming that opioid use disorder is a disease, which needs adequate resources for treatment options; and be it further

Resolved, That the Church recognize that issues of substance use disorders, access to diagnosis and effective treatment, and lack of appropriate treatment for untreated or undertreated pain affect all communities, and there is a disproportionate effect on persons of color, persons with disabilities, and those affected by poverty; and be it further

Resolved, That congregations be urged to pray weekly during the Prayers of the People for those affected by substance use disorders and their families; and be it further

Resolved, That the General Convention designate an existing office to oversee website management, partner with seminaries and other organizations for Recovery Ally training; and be it further

Resolved, That the General Convention request the Joint Standing Committee on Program, Budget and Finance to consider a budget allocation of $40,000 for implementation of this resolution.