The bill establishes appropriations from the Opioid Abatement Special Fund for fiscal year 2026, allocating a total of approximately $6.5 million to various health and social service initiatives aimed at addressing opioid use disorder in Vermont. Key allocations include funding for outreach staff positions, recovery residences, syringe services, overdose prevention centers, and various community programs designed to support individuals with substance use disorders. The bill emphasizes the intent of the General Assembly to maintain funding levels for these initiatives annually, contingent upon the availability of funds in the Special Fund.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to opioid use disorder treatment and the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee. It replaces the term "medication-assisted treatment" with "medication for opioid use disorder" in several sections, reflecting a shift in terminology. The Advisory Committee is tasked with consulting individuals with lived experience of opioid use disorder and making recommendations for expenditures from the Opioid Abatement Special Fund, with a focus on reducing overdose deaths and improving access to treatment. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Passed By the House -- Official: 18-93
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 18-93
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 18-93
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 18-93
As Enacted: 18-93