The proposed bill amends Chapter 42-56 of the General Laws, establishing a new section titled "Medication for opioid use disorder." This section mandates the creation of a program within adult correctional institutions to provide medication-assisted treatment for individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder. The program will include all FDA-approved medications for this condition and will require that inmates be screened for opioid use disorder within 24 hours of admission. Participation in the program is voluntary, and inmates will work with authorized specialists to develop individualized treatment plans. Additionally, the bill ensures that no inmate will be denied participation based on positive drug screenings or disciplinary infractions.

The legislation also outlines a re-entry strategy for participants, which includes providing information on treatment facilities, housing, and employment resources to support continued recovery post-release. It requires that any decision to discontinue medication be documented and communicated to the inmate, along with the right to notify their community-based prescriber. The Department of Corrections is tasked with submitting annual reports on the program's effectiveness, including its impact on participants and institutional safety. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.