Volunteers Needed for Illicit Drug Harm Reduction & Decriminalization Work Group

May 5, 2022

MMA members interested in helping to develop MMA policy to mitigate the health impacts of illicit drug use, drug-related incarceration, and drug-related criminal records are invited to indicate their interest via this form now through 5 pm on May 19. 

On May 2, the MMA Policy Council agreed to create a work group to research, discuss, and develop MMA policy recommendations for Policy Council consideration on issues associated with illicit drug use, particularly with respect to policies around harm reduction and decriminalization. Once the work group finalizes its recommendations, they will go to the Policy Council for further discussion, potential amendments, and endorsement. If the Policy Council endorses the recommendations, they will go to the MMA Board of Trustees for final approval.  

The work group is expected to meet for monthly two-hour evening meetings, starting in June, until the recommendations are completed. Completion of the interest form does not guarantee a voting seat on the work group. Should many members express interest, the chair of the work group will select a limited number of members who indicated interest. Selection criteria will be tied to ensuring diversity in the work group (e.g., specialty, region, section, etc.). 

If you have any questions about the work group, please contact Adrian Uphoff, health policy analyst

Latest News

Prior Authorization Exemption for Buprenorphine Heard in Senate Committee

April 9, 2026

An amended piece of legislation that would exempt buprenorphine from prior authorization (PA) was heard in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on April 9. 

Legislation to Expand Collaborative Care Model Heard in Senate HHS Committee

April 9, 2026

On April 9, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee heard a bill that would require coverage for psychiatric Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) services under Medical Assistance.  

House Committee Hears Legislation to Support Hennepin Healthcare System

April 9, 2026

On April 9, the House Taxes Committee heard legislation focused on supporting the financial stability and ongoing operations of Hennepin Healthcare.