As the 2026 legislative year comes to a close, Virginia’s recovery community leaders will gather to review the key outcomes of this General Assembly Session, including newly signed laws and vetoed bills. SAARA will host leaders from the McShin Foundation, REAL LIFE, VAAP, and other partners for a discussion on major legislative wins and ongoing priorities, including the Behavioral Health Parity Act, Paid Family Medical Leave, Recovery House Regulations, expanded resources and jobs for peers, and many of the 33 bills tracked this session. The group will also discuss how to build on this progress and prepare for the challenges and opportunities facing the recovery community ahead of the 2027 General Assembly Session.

We are excited to announce the launch of the One Voice for Recovery Coalition!

This will be a statewide coalition for recovery advocacy, bringing together voices from across the Commonwealth to strengthen coordination and advance progress for Virginia’s recovery community with DBHDS and the General Assembly.

Our mission is to unite organizations and individuals across Virginia to identify shared advocacy priorities, elevate diverse voices, and strengthen support for SUD recovery and mental health. Together, we work to advance equitable systems change through coordinated policy and advocacy efforts with the General Assembly.

The Coalition’s Board includes issue-focused subcommittees that give members a direct voice in advocacy efforts on key issues. These groups meet regularly to discuss priorities, provide recommendations, and report to the whole group during monthly meetings to help guide next steps and advocacy strategies.

Please click the button below to join the coalition and ensure your voice is heard! During registration, you will have the opportunity to join one of our subcommittees or choose to participate only in the larger group meetings. After registering, you will receive an email with the link to our first meeting on June 4th. Come ready to collaborate, break into subcommittees, and help organize this year’s advocacy priorities!