Bill > A05432

This bill updates New York's public health law to modernize language and expand provisions for dispensing controlled substances to individuals with substance use disorders. Specifically, the bill replaces the term "addict" with "person with a substance use disorder" throughout the text, reflecting more respectful and current terminology. It allows practitioners to prescribe, administer, and dispense schedule III, IV, or V narcotic drugs specifically for maintenance or detoxification treatment to individuals with substance use disorders. The bill also broadens the circumstances under which controlled substances can be prescribed or administered, including during emergency medical treatment unrelated to substance use, for patients with terminal illnesses, or for elderly or seriously ill individuals where withdrawal could be dangerous. Additionally, the bill expands the list of medical professionals who can administer controlled substances to relieve acute withdrawal symptoms to include registered nurses and emergency medical technician-paramedics, provided they are acting within their professional scope of practice. The changes aim to provide more comprehensive and compassionate medical care for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5432