Legislative Advocacy
The "ACES" Bill - An Act to Create Equitable Approaches to Public Health
The "ACES" Bill is a progressive legislative initiative aimed at transforming public health responses in Massachusetts. This act seeks to empower communities by providing funding for the establishment of unarmed response teams that operate independently of law enforcement.
Objectives of the ACES Bill
Promote Public Health and Safety: The bill's primary aim is to enhance public safety by addressing non-violent situations with appropriate resources and personnel. This approach reduces reliance on police intervention for matters that do not require law enforcement.
Empower Communities: The bill empowers local community members to take an active role in managing their community's safety and well-being. This self-governance can lead to solutions that are more culturally and contextually appropriate.
Key Features of the Bill
Grant Funding
Eligibility: Grants are accessible to community organizations and coalitions within Massachusetts. These groups must demonstrate a commitment to public health and safety without relying on existing structures and systems.
Unarmed Response Teams
Composition: Teams may consist of mental health professionals, medical personnel, and community members. These individuals will work collaboratively to address issues such as mental health crises, substance use concerns, and other non-violent crises.
Training: All team members will receive specialized training in de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, and cultural competency, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle a variety of situations.
Expected Impact
The implementation of the ACES Bill is anticipated to result in:
Improved Public Health Outcomes: Tailored responses to crises can lead to better health and safety outcomes for individuals and communities.
Enhanced Community Relations: With residents taking an active role in their community's safety, relationships between the public and safety providers are likely to improve.
The ACES Bill is a significant step toward reimagining public health and safety in Massachusetts. By investing in community-led initiatives, the state can create safer, more equitable environments for all residents.
Diverse People United, Inc also supports these bills:
An Act Relative to Medical and Elder Parole (S. 1722/H.2693)
An Act to build restorative family and community connection (S.1720/H.2591)
An Act relative to human rights and improved outcomes for incarcerated people (S. 1651/H.2608)
An Act creating an independent correctional oversight office to facilitate the recommendations of the Special Legislative Commission on Structural Racism in Correctional Facilities of the Commonwealth (S. 1725/H.2636)
