Gov. Charlie Baker says he could not support a proposal that calls for screening students for potential drug abuse unless it was made optional with state funding.
The Republican governor told reporters on Friday that part of the legislation offered by Senate leaders to attack the state’s opioid abuse crisis could help communities develop strategies to curtail addiction. But, he said he would not accept making it mandatory.
The bill would require seventh- and tenth-graders to be asked questions by qualified screeners to determine if they are at risk for dangerous behavior.
Baker made the comments during a news conference where he urged Massachusetts residents to turn in unused prescription medication during a take-back day on Saturday.
More than 170 sites will accept drop-offs between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
