SMART Policy Network

The SMART Policy Network was created in 2020 to support the University of Tennessee's 2019-2025 strategic plan objective of providing leadership in mitigating the opioid crisis in Tennessee.

This collaborative effort is led by a multi-disciplinary group of experts from the University of Tennessee, East Tennessee State University’s Addiction Science Center, Metro Drug Coalition, the Tennessee Judiciary, Cedar Recovery, New Hope Treatment Center and more. These individuals represent prevention, treatment, recovery, criminal justice, law enforcement, individuals with lived experience and other fields from across the recovery ecosystem.

The network provides a forum to examine policy strengths and gaps. This allows us to find best practices to improve the health and welfare of Tennesseans impacted by substance use disorder.

The network's goal is to be a valued resource for data-driven, evidence-based, non-partisan and actionable policy information on substance misuse and addiction for Tennessee. We also support local leaders interested in adopting innovative policies and practices to mitigate the damage of the overdose crisis.

The network strives to provide evidence-based best practices to communities and decision-makers, including case studies and policy choices from within the state and abroad. Our activities include:

• Reviewing research and analysis to develop a collective voice that informs legislative action.
• Preparing and disseminating briefs on evidence-informed approaches to addiction-related policy.
• Providing the media with accurate, scientific information about addiction and addiction-related policy.
• Engaging with the UT government relations and advocacy team to consult with policymakers on pending laws and regulations.
• Providing user-friendly data visualizations on substance misuse prevention, treatment and recovery metrics.
• Producing a podcast featuring experts on drug policy matters, highlighting county-specific success stories.