Maryland DOL Introduces Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative

Maryland DOL Introduces Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative

The pilot program supports workers in recovery from a substance use disorder.

  • By Robert Yaniz Jr.
  • Dec 15, 2023

The Maryland Department of Labor has launched a Recovery Friendly Workplace pilot program to create a more inclusive environment for individuals recovering from substance use disorders.

Funded by the Maryland Department of Health's Behavioral Health Administration, the program will receive over $438,000 in federal funding through September 2024. It focuses on assisting employers to develop workplaces that support the professional and personal growth of people who identify as in recovery from a substance use disorder.

“We appreciate the support and partnership for this important initiative to help provide more inclusive opportunities for Marylanders in recovery,” Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu said in a statement. “Recovery impacts all facets of life, including careers and professional development. This collaboration across state government will help us to develop best practices so that workplaces foster professional and personal growth.”

The Western Maryland Consortium, Susquehanna Workforce Network and St. Mary's County Health Department—located in areas heavily affected by addiction and overdose crises—will use the funding to employ certified peer recovery specialists to act as both a resource for individuals in recovery and a liaison for businesses to adopt the Recovery Friendly model.

On a related note, the Maryland Department of Labor was also selected to participate in the National Governors Association Policy Academy on Overdose Prevention Across the Continuum. Through this involvement, the department will receive insights into best practices for supporting the Recovery Friendly Workplace program expanding it statewide.

More information about the Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative, is available on the Maryland Department of Labor's website.

About the Author

Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

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