Please join us for an insightful presentation called “Section 35: How It Works from a Clinical Perspective” on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. You can register for this free event here.

Section 35 refers to “Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 123, § 35) that allows a qualified petitioner—such as a police officer, doctor, spouse, or family member—to petition a court to involuntarily commit someone for up to 90 days of addiction treatment. It requires proof that the person has a substance use disorder and poses a risk of serious harm to themselves or others.” 

Featuring John Barber, Western MA Area Forensic Director, from the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, and Corey Rogers, LICSW/QSW, from the Springfield Court Clinic, participants will learn more about:

• An overview of section 35 with available data
• How the civil commitment process works
• Insights into the process from a clinician’s experience
• Tips and strategies for navigating the system

This is part of the 2026 Opioid Task Force’s Education and Training Series.

Help us spread the word! A flyer is attached and can also be viewed here. Questions? Feel free to reach out at info@opioidtaskforce.org.