Bill > H681

This bill directs the Commission for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services to update its rules for outpatient opioid treatment programs (OTPs) to better align with federal regulations in 42 C.F.R. Part 8. Specifically, the bill requires the Commission to make five key changes: (1) remove the requirement that a patient's home environment and social relationships be stable to qualify for take-home medication, (2) require the State Opioid Treatment Authority (SOTA) to review patient discharge policies related to substance use and missed treatments, (3) eliminate structured counseling schedules to allow for more individualized and flexible patient care, (4) reduce the number of required drug tests to match federal guidelines, and (5) explicitly permit OTPs to administer methadone to patients from other treatment programs under certain verification conditions. The bill also mandates that the Commission engage with current and former OTP clients and providers to gather input on potential additional improvements, while ensuring any changes comply with state and federal laws. The Commission is required to publish the proposed updated rules by January 1, 2026, and the act will become effective immediately upon becoming law.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H681