Bill > HB1289

This bill requires the Maryland Department of Health to establish comprehensive regulations for drug and alcohol treatment programs, focusing on patient discharge procedures and referral services. Specifically, the bill mandates that treatment programs cannot discharge patients who would become homeless or require residential care without first referring them to appropriate alternative housing like halfway houses or recovery residences. The regulations must ensure that before or during discharge, patients receive referrals and facilitated entry into services addressing their holistic needs, including physical and mental health, employment, financial support, legal assistance, family support, and education. For certain high-intensity treatment programs (specifically ASAM Level 3.3 and 3.5), the bill requires treatment programs to implement referral agreements within 3 working days of creating an individualized treatment plan, covering services such as medical care, rehabilitation services, mental health support, substance abuse treatment, and social services. The bill also requires the Maryland Department of Health to submit a report by December 1, 2025, detailing the status of regulation adoption and an enforcement plan, with the bill taking effect on June 1, 2025. The goal is to ensure more comprehensive, patient-centered care and support for individuals transitioning out of drug and alcohol treatment programs.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1289?ys=2025RS