Janelle LaPlante | Oppose SB441

Dear Esteemed Legislators, Thank you for taking the time to review my testimony. I am a Psychology PhD student at the University of New Hampshire and have extensively reviewed the research literature regarding substance use treatment and specifically harm reduction services. There is a lot of science to support the notion of "meeting people where they are," which harm reduction specifically executes. I have also had the distinct privilege of closely collaborating with a neuroscientist who specializes in substance use, and it is my understanding that substance use is a highly complex issue involving many treatment barriers. Additionally, many such individuals find themselves very alone. They are often ostracized from their friends, family, and other loved ones. Thus, harm reduction services not only meet people where they presently are (e.g., offer realistic treatment options for their individual situations) but also offer a supportive community that is much needed. Having such community membership stabilizes and grounds people. It also helps to keep them accountable. I would echo such sentiments for broader community-based substance use treatment services as well, as there is a tremendous amount of scientific literature that speaks to the strength of such programming. As such, I kindly request you consider opposing SB 441. Thank you for your time and consideration.