Bill > S1711

This bill requires all state and county correctional facilities to provide medication for addiction treatment (MAT) for individuals with substance use or alcohol use disorders. The legislation defines MAT as a treatment determined to be clinically appropriate by a qualified addiction specialist, involving FDA-approved medications and a reviewed treatment plan. Key provisions include mandating that facilities assess all detained or incarcerated individuals for addiction treatment within 24 hours of admission, offer MAT regardless of prior drug screenings, and ensure continuous access to treatment. Facilities must maintain the same medication and dosage an individual was receiving before incarceration, unless a specialist determines a change is medically necessary. The bill also requires facilities to create comprehensive re-entry treatment plans at least 30 days before an individual's release, which include referrals to treatment providers, assistance with benefits, and provisions of opioid antagonists. Correctional facilities must report detailed information about MAT usage every six months, and the Department of Public Health will prepare biennial reports analyzing the treatment's outcomes, comparing metrics such as treatment retention, substance use, recidivism, and overdose rates between those who received MAT and those who did not. The goal is to provide consistent, evidence-based addiction treatment to incarcerated individuals and support their recovery upon release.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1711