128th MAINE LEGISLATURE
LD 952 LR 1530(05)
An Act To Ensure Access to Opiate Addiction Treatment in Maine
Fiscal Note for Bill as Engrossed with:
C "A" (S-106)
S "A" (S-331) to C "A" (S-106)
Committee: Health and Human Services
             
Fiscal Note
Potential current biennium cost increase - General Fund
Potential current biennium cost increase - Federal Expenditures Fund
Fiscal Detail and Notes
The bill allows the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to increase the rate for outpatient opioid treatment, if they determine it is justified. If DHHS determines that an increase in the rate of reimbursement for outpatient opioid treatment is justified, this would lead to an increase in costs.

The bill also authorizes registered professional nurses, certified nurse practitioners and licensed practical nurses to dispense opioid medication for substance abuse treatment purposes to patients in an opioid treatment program. Additionally, the bill requires DHHS to amend its rules to permit outpatient opioid treatment providers to remain open 6 days per week rather than 7 days per week. Any additional costs to the Department of Health and Human Services to implement these provisions are expected to be minor and can be absorbed within existing budgeted resources.