The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 365 aims to establish a bridge program for emergency treatment and recovery navigation for individuals with opioid use disorder. Effective October 1, 2026, the bill mandates that starting January 1, 2027, all hospitals licensed under chapter 368v must administer buprenorphine to patients presenting with symptoms of opioid use disorder in their emergency departments, without requiring hospital admission for this treatment. Additionally, hospitals are required to provide patients with a supply of opioid antagonists upon discharge and refer them to local treatment programs for further assistance.

The bill introduces new definitions related to opioid use disorder, including "buprenorphine," "opioid antagonist," and "treatment program," which are essential for the implementation of the proposed requirements. The intent of the legislation is to enhance the immediate care provided to individuals experiencing opioid-related emergencies and to facilitate their transition into ongoing treatment and recovery services.