The bill seeks to improve 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 revises the requirements for developing "plans of safe care" for substance-exposed newborns, mandating that these plans be created before the newborn is discharged from birthing facilities. New definitions, such as "substance-exposed newborn," are introduced, and the responsibilities of birthing facilities are clarified, including the requirement to share the written plan of safe care with the child's primary care physician and the Department of Health.

Additionally, the bill requires health care providers to use evidence-based screening tools to identify substance-exposed newborns and outlines the essential components of the plan of safe care, which may include referrals to support services. It emphasizes collaboration among health care providers, families, and community resources to ensure the safety and well-being of affected children. The legislation also establishes monitoring responsibilities for health care providers and agencies, ensures confidentiality, and provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for those acting in good faith under this framework. The provisions of the 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