Legislation introduced by Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35) aimed at supporting individuals recovering from substance use disorder has passed the Senate Labor and Industry Committee in Harrisburg. The bill, known as Senate Bill 69, proposes the creation of the Recovery to Work Pilot Program, which is designed to help people in recovery find and keep employment in high-priority fields through partnerships with Pennsylvania’s local workforce development boards.
According to Senator Langerholc, “Steady, meaningful employment is critical to long-term recovery because it provides structure, stability and a renewed sense of purpose. This legislation moves people away from government dependency and empowers them to become active, productive members of their communities. We’ve lost far too many lives to the heroin and opioid crisis, and we must continue to offer a pathway forward.”
The Department of Labor and Industry would oversee the pilot program with input from other state agencies and local workforce boards. These boards would work with treatment and recovery organizations, employers, apprenticeship programs, and training providers to design job training and employment opportunities that fit local needs.
Senator Langerholc has previously introduced similar legislation over multiple sessions. The initiative has passed the Senate three times before. With committee approval, Senate Bill 69 now moves to the full Senate for further consideration.
