Bill > H2067

This bill aims to ensure consistent and evidence-based care for individuals with opioid use disorder who are in the custody of correctional facilities. Key provisions include: 1. Defining "medication for opioid use disorder" and requiring correctional facilities to offer such medications to detainees and prisoners, including those already receiving the medication prior to incarceration and those newly identified as needing it. 2. Mandating that correctional facilities maintain the capacity to provide FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder, and that the treatment plan and dosage be determined by a qualified addiction specialist. 3. Requiring the development of re-entry treatment plans for detainees and prisoners nearing release, which may include connecting them to appropriate providers and ensuring MassHealth benefits are reinstated or applied for. 4. Establishing reporting requirements for correctional facilities on various metrics related to the provision of medication for opioid use disorder, and requiring the Department of Public Health to prepare a biennial report on the outcomes of these treatment programs. The bill aims to promote evidence-based and consistent care for individuals with opioid use disorder who are incarcerated, with the goal of improving treatment retention, reducing substance use and relapse, and minimizing the risk of overdose upon release.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H2067