Substitute House Bill No. 6838 aims to enhance access to substance use disorder treatment facilities by modifying the criteria for emergency commitment. The bill allows individuals to be committed for emergency treatment if they have a history of repeated overdoses or have been administered an opioid antagonist multiple times, rather than solely requiring that they be intoxicated at the time of the commitment application. This change is significant as it broadens the scope of individuals eligible for emergency treatment, which can now be initiated by a wider range of responsible persons, including emergency medical service providers. The bill also maintains that a refusal to undergo treatment does not indicate a lack of judgment regarding the need for treatment.

Additionally, the bill prohibits rehabilitation facilities from requiring that individuals be intoxicated or test positive for illegal substances or opioid antagonists at the time of admission. This provision is intended to remove barriers to accessing treatment for those seeking help for substance use disorders. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes technical changes to existing law. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve the responsiveness of treatment facilities to the needs of individuals struggling with substance use disorders, potentially leading to increased treatment admissions and associated costs for the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
PH Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 15: