Hochul Administration Pitches Woke Alternative to Refer to Drug Abusers
The Hochul administration is pushing to cancel using the word "addict" to describe a drug user in New York State government, proposing the ultra-PC alternative "person with a substance abuse disorder."
A New Definition
Gov. Kathy Hochul tucked a ban on "addict" and "habitual user" as part of a plan to tackle the opioid epidemic in her $252 billion budget proposal unveiled Tuesday, even though the state agency overseeing abuse treatment is called the Office of Addiction Services and Supports.
Critics Speak Out
Critics, however, slammed the obsession with language as another example of political correctness run amok. "New York State government should stop worrying about verbiage and worry about providing treatment," said state Conservative Party chairman Gerard Kasser. "I’d rather see state officials focusing on saving lives."
A Different Perspective
One veteran drug treatment provider defended Hochul’s censoring of the word "addict" and "habitual user," saying words do matter. "The purpose of the change is to reduce the stigma for people who are dependent on drugs," said Luke Nasta, executive director of the Staten Island-based Camelot Counseling. "Substance abuse permeates society. It’s a good thing to remove the stigma. We can make the problem more understandable and better address it if we reduce the stigma."
More Than Just Semantics
Hochul’s spending plan outlays nearly $1.25 billion for substance abuse treatment via the OASS, which would allow paramedics to administer Buprenorphine/nalox to treat opioid abuse and issue a three-day supply of opioid use disorder medication to curb the likelihood of overdose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the Hochul administration proposing to ban the use of the word "addict"?
A: To reduce the stigma associated with drug use and to promote a more compassionate and understanding approach to the issue.
Q: How does the Hochul administration plan to address the opioid epidemic?
A: Through a $1.25 billion investment in substance abuse treatment, including the administration of Buprenorphine/nalox and the issue of a three-day supply of opioid use disorder medication.
Q: What is the purpose of the Office of Addiction Services and Supports?
A: To oversee the state’s addiction treatment services and provide support to individuals struggling with addiction.
