Every state should have a strategy that encompasses all the agencies affected by alcohol and drug problems. Responsibility for state and federal prevention and treatment funds should be held by an entity that reports directly to the governor and has direct access to the state legislature.

In New York City, the Administration for Children’s Services has an extensive protocol, in partnership with the state’s alcohol and drug agency, to enable a smooth transition into drug and alcohol treatment for parents who have children in the foster care system. Do you know of other good examples of state-level action on structure? Email your stories to us.