The bill amends Chapter 42-56 of the General Laws by adding a new section, 42-56-43, to establish a program within adult correctional institutions for the treatment of opioid use disorder using FDA-approved medications. Under this program, each inmate will be screened for opioid use disorder within twenty-four (24) hours of admission. If diagnosed with an opioid use disorder, inmates will be offered voluntary participation in the medication for opioid use disorder program, which will include individualized treatment plans.

Inmates currently receiving medication for opioid use disorder will be allowed to continue their treatment pending a medical evaluation. The program ensures that no inmate will be denied participation due to a positive drug screening upon entering custody or due to any disciplinary infractions.

Additionally, the program will include a re-entry strategy to assist participants in their recovery after incarceration, providing information on available treatment facilities, housing, and employment resources. The Department of Corrections is required to submit a report to the governor and the general assembly within one year of the effective date of this section and annually thereafter, analyzing the program's effectiveness, including its impact on participants and institutional safety.

The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.