The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow for the development of juvenile inpatient substance use disorder treatment beds. Specifically, it modifies section 16-2D-9 to include a provision that permits the addition of 100 licensed substance abuse treatment beds specifically designated for inpatient treatment of individuals aged 17 years or younger, regardless of the existing number of licensed substance abuse treatment beds in a county.

This change aims to address the growing need for specialized treatment options for young individuals struggling with substance use disorders, while still maintaining the existing regulations that require a certificate of need for various health services. The bill retains other restrictions on the development of health services, ensuring that the addition of these juvenile treatment beds is a targeted response to a critical public health issue.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-2D-9
Committee Substitute: 16-2D-9