RTI Selected as TTA Provider for the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — RTI International was selected as a training and technical assistance (TTA) provider for the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA) Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP) in March 2020. The program builds multidisciplinary local, state, and tribal responses to illicit substance use and misuse to reduce overdose deaths, support public safety, and increase access to treatment and recovery services in the criminal justice system.

As part of the program, RTI is working with other COSSAP TTA providers to assist states and locals with their efforts to address the illicit substance use and misuse crisis including:

1. Law enforcement and other first responder programs
2. Jail-based treatment
3. Peer recovery support
4. Multidisciplinary initiatives
5. Prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP)

With extensive expertise in policing partnerships and efforts to reduce or prevent illicit drug use, RTI International will work with other COSSAP providers to promote evidence-based practices and offer direct support to state agencies and their sub-recipients.

RTI and its project partners, the National Governors Association (NGA) and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), are working with 13 states to study law enforcement diversion, family-focused approaches, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in jails, peer-to-peer recovery, trauma-informed interventions, and responsive models. Additionally, RTI is working with other TTA providers to support rural jurisdiction programs, school-based interventions that coordinate with law enforcement and child welfare agencies, and information-exchange between criminal justice and public health agencies.

Drawing on its expertise in program evaluation, data analysis, and implementation, RTI will also cultivate peer-to-peer learning and cross-site coordination to promote program improvements both locally and nationally. RTI will achieve this goal by providing direct technical support to jurisdictions and by producing publications and webinars that highlight innovative programs COSSAP grantees are implementing to improve outcomes for individuals and communities affected by substance misuse.