Raised Bill No. 195 seeks to address the issue of accidental overdose deaths and improve access to treatment for individuals with substance use disorders by introducing "overdose prevention centers." These community-based facilities will provide counseling, substance testing, and supervised consumption of controlled substances by licensed healthcare providers. The bill authorizes the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health, to establish a pilot program for these centers in four municipalities, pending local approval. The centers will also offer support services, including treatment referrals and basic amenities. To encourage participation, the bill protects healthcare providers from civil liability and disciplinary actions related to administering opioid antagonists. Additionally, it allows for the formation of an advisory committee to enhance the centers' effectiveness and addresses the disposal of drug paraphernalia.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing healthcare regulations, particularly the certificate of need (CON) process, by expanding the definitions of eligible healthcare facilities and services, including community health centers and outpatient clinics. It allows for the replacement of certain medical imaging equipment without a new CON, provided that the facility notifies the relevant unit. The bill also streamlines the establishment of harm reduction and overdose prevention centers and permits the expansion of licensed bed capacity in mental health facilities under specific conditions. Notably, it deletes the previous requirement for a CON for certain increases in licensed bed capacity for mental health facilities, contingent upon their acceptance of reimbursement for covered benefits. Overall, Raised Bill No. 195 aims to enhance the accessibility and funding of essential healthcare services while reducing regulatory burdens.