This bill amends existing laws regarding the implementation timeline for the ASAM 4 criteria, which are treatment guidelines for addictive, substance-related, and co-occurring conditions. Specifically, it extends the deadline for Medicaid managed care organizations and carriers to begin using the updated ASAM Criteria from January 1, 2026, to January 1, 2028. The health care authority and the office of the insurance commissioner are tasked with jointly determining whether to adopt the updated criteria and will provide notice of their decision on their respective websites.

The bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the health care authority and the insurance commissioner in assessing the updated ASAM Criteria, ensuring that any changes are communicated effectively to relevant entities. By delaying the implementation date, the bill allows for additional time to evaluate the updated treatment criteria before they are mandated for use in the state’s Medicaid system.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 71.24.619, 48.43.764