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3. Reconsidering the “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets” Executive Order
A commentary published in *Psychiatric Services* warns that a federal executive order expanding involuntary psychiatric commitment and incarceration of people experiencing homelessness could worsen mental health outcomes while straining already limited psychiatric treatment resources. The authors criticize the administration's decision to deprioritize Housing First and harm reduction programs, arguing that expanding access to stable housing and community-based mental health services would more effectively address homelessness, substance use disorders, and public safety. (Source: Psychiatric Services)
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4. Scheduling Doesn’t Keep Dangerous Drugs Out of Our Communities, but Reducing Demand Could
New research examining state restrictions on xylazine suggests that scheduling the veterinary sedative has not substantially reduced its presence in the illicit drug supply and may be associated with increased circulation of medetomidine, a potentially more dangerous alternative. An R Street Institute analysis argues that expanding access to addiction treatment, naloxone, and other evidence-based interventions may be more effective at reducing overdose risks than relying primarily on drug prohibitions. (Source: R Street Institute)
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5. Brick Considers Lifting Cannabis Dispensary Ban
Brick Township officials are considering an ordinance that would permit one recreational cannabis dispensary, potentially reversing the municipality's longstanding prohibition on cannabis retailers. The proposal would establish restrictions on location, operating hours, and security while imposing a 2% local sales tax, with a public hearing and final council vote scheduled for October 27. (Source: Star News Group)
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