The bill introduced on March 5, 2025, aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by abolishing methadone clinics and establishing new regulations for medication-assisted treatment programs. It redefines "medication-assisted treatment program" to exclude opioid agonists and prohibits the licensing of programs that utilize them. The legislation outlines a comprehensive licensing process for opioid treatment programs, requiring approval from the Director of the Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification, along with mandatory inspections to ensure compliance. Additionally, it specifies that only FDA-approved medications can be used in these programs, further emphasizing the need for regulatory oversight and promoting alternative treatment methods for substance use disorders.

Significantly, the bill prohibits any operation of medication-assisted treatment programs that utilize or prescribe opioid agonists, effectively making methadone clinics illegal. It also introduces new requirements for physicians treating patients with buprenorphine, including documentation for higher dosages and consultations with relevant specialists. The legislation allows for certain exemptions for smaller programs treating up to 30 patients, provided they meet specific conditions. Furthermore, it establishes civil penalties for violations, including fines up to $20,000 for serious infractions, and grants the director the authority to limit or revoke licenses for non-compliance, thereby enhancing the safety and integrity of medication-assisted treatment services in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16B-13-2, 16B-13-3, 16B-13-4, 16B-13-5, 16B-13-9