This bill allows individuals aged 18 and older, emancipated minors, or their authorized representatives to create voluntary nonopioid directives, which are formal statements indicating that opioids should not be administered or prescribed to them. The directives must be documented on a form developed by the Department of Health, which will also be responsible for publicizing information about these directives. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not prevent the prescription of opioids if deemed medically necessary.

Additionally, the bill provides legal protections for health care professionals and facilities. They will be immune from disciplinary actions by the Department of Health or licensing boards for actions taken in compliance with the bill. Furthermore, they will not face civil or criminal liability for failing to administer or prescribe opioids to individuals with a voluntary nonopioid directive, as long as their actions are reasonable and made in good faith. The Commissioner of Health is tasked with adopting necessary regulations to implement the provisions of this act, which will take effect immediately upon passage.