People in recovery often face challenges as they build a new life – including finding housing, steady employment, quality medical insurance and continuing their education.
Some obstacles are a result of discrimination. Fortunately, there are resources that can help.
- Legal
People in recovery have certain rights under federal law and sometimes state law to help them get their lives back on track. These rights include freedom from discrimination in employment, housing, education, health care, and government services.
On the Federal Level
Know Your Rights: Rights for Individuals on Medication-Assisted Treatment
This brochure explains the Federal laws about discriminating against people who are receiving Medication-Assisted Treatment for opioid addiction (known as MAT). MAT includes medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and oral naltrexone used for detox or treatment. The brochure gives basic information to help you exercise your rights and know where to turn for help.
On the State Level
Legal Services Corporation: Get Legal Help
132 independent nonprofit legal aid organizations are funded in every state, the District of Columbia, and U.S. Territories. If you are looking for help with a civil legal problem, enter an address or city to find a legal aid organization near you.
American Bar Association: Free Legal Answers
This is an online legal advice clinic. Select your state on the home page. Qualifying users post their civil (not criminal) law question to their state's website. Lawyers who volunteer choose questions to answer and then email you with legal information and advice. You can use this website to ask 3 different legal questions per year.
Resources
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Since 2008 the ADA has ensured equal opportunities in employment, government services, public accommodations, and more for people with disabilities—including those with mental illnesses and substance use disorders.
Confidentiality of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Patient Records
Protecting the privacy of patient information is crucial in substance use disorder treatment. With this protection, you can seek help without worrying that your diagnosis or treatment information will be disclosed without your consent.
Discrimination in Housing – the Fair Housing Laws
Federal and state laws do not allow discrimination in housing because of a disability, including recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. You are protected as long as you are not currently using an addictive substance. This includes protection from discrimination in renting or buying a home, getting a mortgage, or seeking housing assistance.
To file a complaint about housing discrimination contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. - Relapse Prevention
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