This bill amends existing laws regarding patient referrals to substance use disorder treatment facilities, elevating the severity of certain offenses from a crime of the fourth degree to a crime of the third degree. Specifically, it criminalizes the act of making or receiving payments, fees, commissions, or rebates in connection with patient referrals to licensed treatment facilities. Additionally, it penalizes individuals who knowingly assist or conspire to facilitate such payments. A significant change introduced by the bill is the establishment of a mandatory fine of $50,000 for those convicted of these offenses, which is a new provision not present in the current law.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the definitions of key terms related to the law, including "health care facility," "health care provider," and "recovery residence." These definitions expand the scope of the law to include various entities and individuals involved in the treatment of substance use disorders, ensuring that a broader range of actors is held accountable under these regulations. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:40A-6