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CAUCUS GROUPS

Progress is found in a diversity of voices. 

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Individuals with lived experience have joined OCAAR in focused advocacy work groups that help define OCAAR’s advocacy and shape state policy. By leveraging our collective influence, resources, and expertise we create change in Ohio. These groups collaborate, strategize, and advocate as dynamic force in Ohio’s recovery policy landscape.

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If you’re ready for your voice to be heard, it’s never too late to get involved! Review the policy statements for each caucus below and sign up for the group(s) you’re most interested in. All requests are reviewed by OCAAR, who will reach out with more information and next steps, Remember, nothing about us without us! 

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PEER SUPPORT

Supporting Certified Peer Supporters through policy initiatives and higher wages is essential for enhancing the effectiveness of recovery services. By implementing policies that ensure fair compensation, we can attract and retain skilled peer supporters, acknowledging their expertise and the invaluable support they offer. Additionally, investing in training and resources for peer supporters enhances their capacity to help others, ultimately leading to better recovery outcomes and healthier communities.

 

Peer Support Caucus Policy Statement:

Ohio certified peer supporters will have clear pathways for career advancement, with opportunities for additional education and experience to enhance their expertise and grow within their field. Peer supporters deserve workplaces that are supportive and peer-friendly

 

Our Policy Agenda:

  1. Billing and payment for peer support services (Medicaid and Non-Medicaid)

  2. Professionalization of Ohio’s Peer Workforce

  3. Establishing a career ladder for the peer workforce

  4. Peer-friendly work environments for peer supporters

DECRIMINALIZING SUD


Substance use disorder is a medical condition that should be treated with care and compassion—not criminal penalties. Criminalizing individuals for substance use fuels stigma, disrupts recovery, and disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. We support a public health approach that diverts people from the justice system and connects them with the support they need to heal and thrive.

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Our Policy Agenda:
1. Support legislation that removes criminal penalties for personal use and possession of controlled substances.
2. Expand diversion programs that redirect individuals with substance use disorders into treatment and recovery support instead of jail.
3. Promote policies that seal or expunge records for nonviolent drug offenses to reduce barriers to housing, employment, and reintegration.
4. Advocate for investment in recovery support services as alternatives to criminal justice involvement.
 

HOUSING

People with substance use disorders (SUDs) often face significant challenges in securing stable housing, which is crucial for their recovery. Stigma associated with addiction can lead to discrimination from landlords and housing providers, making it difficult for individuals to find suitable accommodations. Many rental applications require background checks that may reveal past substance-related offenses, further complicating the search for housing.

 

Housing Caucus Policy Statement:

To increase the availability of high-quality affordable housing in Ohio for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders.  Housing includes recovery housing, affordable independent rental housing for low-income individuals and families, and viable assistance and options to assist individuals with substance use disorders to purchase and maintain home ownership. 

 

OCAAR’s Housing Caucus focuses our efforts on three main policy points:

  1. Standardizing zoning laws to expand recovery housing

  2. Reducing barriers to housing for individuals with criminal records

  3. Expanding supportive housing for parents in recovery with their children

FAMILY SUPPORT

Ohio and its laws often fail to adequately support families, leaving many without the resources they need to help their loved ones. Policies frequently focus on the individual struggling with substance use disorder while overlooking the broader family dynamics that influence recovery. Expanding legal and agency support for family-based interventions and resources is essential to creating a comprehensive framework for addiction recovery that includes the needs of families.

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