The bill seeks to enhance the state's program under the Federal Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2016 by transferring its administration from the Children, Youth and Families Department to the Department of Health. It introduces new definitions and requirements for "plans of safe care," which are essential written plans developed by healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of substance-exposed newborns and support pregnant individuals facing substance use disorders. The bill mandates that birthing facilities participate in the discharge planning process, creating a plan of safe care before the discharge of a substance-exposed newborn, which must be shared with the child's primary care physician and relevant departments.

Additionally, the bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the care of substance-exposed newborns, emphasizing the creation of a "plan of safe care" that includes referrals to early intervention programs and various agencies. It outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Health in monitoring compliance with these plans and requires the development of rules by January 1, 2026, to guide hospitals and care providers. The bill also clarifies that reporting a plan of safe care does not equate to a report of child abuse or neglect, thereby protecting involved parties from legal repercussions. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 32A-3A-2, 32A-3A-13, 32A-3A-14, 32A-4-3
HC substitute: 32A-1-4, 32A-3A-2, 32A-3A-13, 32A-3A-14, 32A-4-3