This bill mandates that providers of substance or alcohol use disorder treatment, services, or supports undergo a conflict of interest assessment before they can receive State funds, licensure, or certification. The assessment must be conducted by a reviewing entity, which can be any State or local department, agency, or authority that provides funding or licensing to these providers. The bill specifies that a conflict of interest assessment should include a comprehensive review of financial statements, board member information, and details about stakeholders and staff, among other criteria. Importantly, the reviewing entity is not required to conduct this assessment more than once every 365 days.
If a conflict of interest is identified, the reviewing entity must inform the provider in writing, detailing the nature of the conflict and the necessary steps to remedy it. The provider will be ineligible for State funds or licensure until the conflict is resolved. Once the provider submits documentation proving that the conflict has been addressed, the reviewing entity is obligated to release any withheld funds and process any pending applications for State funds or licensure. The bill aims to ensure that the integrity of treatment services is maintained by preventing conflicts of interest that could compromise the quality of care provided.