How ironic is it that the state of Maryland so often spends money like they're drunk, but when they choose to actually cut money from State programs, they decide to pick on a segment of society that is so often ostracized? Guess it's low-hanging fruit, right? Talking about the communtiy of people suffering from addiction and in recovery. And the state is planning to cut $4.5 million off the budget of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Administration. You can read more about this ridiculousness here.
So I would like to know, what about the numerous state programs that don't perform well, perform redundant services, or are just plain useless? So, anyone looking at those programs? Oh yeah, didn't think so.
One of the advocates for funding recovery speaks in the article of the human cost. The human cost is a powerful one indeed. So here, State Legislators, is that will happen when you cut this funding.
People will die. Both people seeking recovery and the people they might affect-- families, friends, loved ones, maybe even complete strangers who happen to be in the path when an addict acts out. Oh, and also, people will get into the justice system. People will be forever shut out from having hope to becoming productive members of society. Instead, they will continue to rot in prison.
This funding cut, proposed by Governor O'Malley, is outrageous. And it must not be allowed to stand. Wherever you live in the State, you must contact your state legislators and ask them to fully fund the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Administration, and reverse the $4.5 million cut. Go here and click on "voice my opinion" on the bottom left to find out how to contact your legislators.
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