SF1827

This bill modifies substance use disorder (SUD) treatment provisions and directs the commissioner of human services to develop recommendations for transition support services for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Specifically, it:

1. Amends Comprehensive Assessment Fees:

   • Requires individuals convicted of certain impaired driving offenses to pay for their chemical dependency comprehensive assessments.
     
   • Imposes a $25 assessment charge, with an additional $5 surcharge for repeat impaired driving offenders.
     
   • Courts can waive the assessment charge but not the actual cost of the assessment unless the assessment is covered by public assistance programs (e.g., Medicaid).
     
   • Collected fees are deposited into the state’s general fund.
     

2. Aligns Licensing Requirements with Accreditation Standards:

   • Allows the commissioner of human services to determine when substance use disorder treatment accreditations from recognized organizations (e.g., The Joint Commission, CARF, ASAM Level of Care Certification Program) meet state licensing standards.
     

3. Develops Transition Support Services Recommendations:

   • Requires the commissioner to consult with stakeholders, including recovery organizations, treatment providers, and individuals in recovery, to develop recommendations for support services for individuals transitioning out of treatment.
     
   • Focus areas include funding for recovery housing, food support, childcare, transportation, service duration, and eligibility criteria.
     
   • The recommendations must maximize available state and federal funding without counting benefits as income for eligibility purposes.
     
   • A report on these recommendations is due to the legislature by December 1, 2025.
     

4. Updates Terminology in State Law:

   • Standardizes terminology by replacing "chemical dependency assessment" and similar terms with "comprehensive assessment" in relevant statutes and regulations.
     

The bill aims to improve support for individuals recovering from substance use disorders while ensuring that assessments and licensing processes are better aligned with existing accreditation standards.