New National Institute to Support Workplace Recovery Programs

In an effort to promote employment opportunities for individuals in recovery from substance use disorder, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu will oversee the establishment of a national institute. The Recovery Friendly Workplace National Institute, of which Sununu will serve as honorary chairman, aims to provide training and resources to companies willing to hire and support individuals in recovery. As part of the initiative, the White House announced various measures to aid states and businesses in expanding their support for those in recovery. This includes the development of a toolkit for businesses and model legislation to encourage state legislatures to consider incentives such as tax credits and grants for employers willing to become certified as recovery-friendly workplaces. Governor Sununu's involvement in this national effort stems from the success of a program he initiated in March 2018. Over 350 businesses, employing approximately 100,000 individuals, have joined the program since its inception. Prior to its implementation, Sununu recognized the challenges faced by employers in retaining workers due to the state's opioid crisis. "I realized that the best approach was to be part of a healthier pathway for them, supporting their recovery," Sununu explained. "This enabled me to retain them as employees while empowering them to address their personal struggles." The creation of the Recovery Friendly Workplace National Institute reflects a commitment to address the ongoing issue of substance use disorder within the workforce. By providing training, resources, and incentives, the institute aims to enable more companies nationwide to offer employment opportunities and support to individuals in recovery. (Note: This modified notice aims to retain the essence of the original article while reducing its length and rephrasing the content.)