This bill amends existing laws to allow alternative treatment centers (ATCs) in New Hampshire to operate on a for-profit basis, moving away from the previous requirement that they be not-for-profit entities. The definition of "alternative treatment center" is updated to include domestic business corporations and limited liability companies, while the stipulation that they must be not-for-profit is removed. The bill also introduces provisions for ATCs to convert from voluntary corporations to either domestic business corporations or limited liability companies, with specific conditions, including a three-year prohibition on selling memberships or shares to foreign corporations.

Additionally, the governance structure of ATCs is revised to require that their boards include at least one licensed medical professional and one qualified patient, ensuring that the majority of board members are New Hampshire residents. The bill facilitates ATCs' ability to operate competitively without needing tax-exempt status from the IRS. While the bill does not provide funding, it is expected to incur a one-time expenditure of $13,000 for the Department of State to implement necessary changes, which will be covered by non-general fund revenue sources. The Department of Health and Human Services has indicated that there will be no fiscal impact on its operations, with estimated implications not expected until FY 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 126-X:1, 126-X:7, 126-X:8, 292:7, 293-A:9, 304-C:149