Bill > S1402

This bill amends Massachusetts law to improve access to addiction treatment services by redefining and clarifying key terms and procedures related to facilities that treat alcohol and substance use disorders. The bill defines "facility" and "secure facility" to specifically exclude jails and correctional entities, ensuring that treatment facilities are distinct from correctional institutions. It requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to ensure an adequate supply of treatment beds geographically distributed across Massachusetts, and mandates that the Department of Public Health maintain a roster of available facilities with their bed count and security levels. The bill also provides more flexibility in treatment, allowing individuals committed to a facility to transition between different levels of care and encouraging voluntary continued treatment upon release. Additionally, the bill explicitly states that correctional entities retain a legal responsibility to offer evidence-based treatment for alcohol and substance use disorders to incarcerated individuals on a voluntary basis. These changes aim to improve the accessibility, continuity, and quality of addiction treatment services across the state.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1402