Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Williams celebrates signing of bill to help Pa. improve substance use programs and response

Williams celebrates signing of bill to help Pa. improve substance use programs and response

Rep. Dan Williams    July 1, 2025 | 9:13 AM

HARRISBURG, July 1 – State Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, announced that his legislation to ensure the state is meeting its benchmarks with substance use programs was signed into law last night by Gov. Josh Shapiro.

House Bill 640 improves the annual report that the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs submits to the General Assembly.  

Williams said the DDAP has played a critical role in advancing education, intervention, treatment and recovery initiatives across Pennsylvania. As the state continues to fight the opioid crisis and other emerging drug threats, DDAP has strengthened its collaboration with the departments of Health, Corrections, Human Services and other key agencies.

Given DDAP’s growing responsibilities and evolving initiatives, HB 640 updates the department’s annual reporting requirements.

“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.

The new law seeks to improve communication and collaboration with the public, advocacy organizations and service providers, providing greater transparency and informed public policy.

“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,” Williams said.

“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.”