Maryland Senate Bill SB282

Maryland 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

Correctional Services - Local Detention Centers - Reporting on Opioid Use Disorder

Impact

The bill alters the reporting requirements for the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services, shifting the focus towards ensuring proper data collection and treatment implementation for individuals with opioid use disorder. It requires local detention centers to conduct initial assessments for opioid-related issues and to make necessary treatments available. This emphasis on healthcare within correctional facilities aligns with broader public health goals while allowing for improved tracking and reporting on the status of opioid treatment and associated recidivism rates.

Summary

Senate Bill 282 seeks to amend existing provisions related to the treatment and reporting of opioid use disorder among incarcerated individuals in local detention centers across Maryland. It proposes a structured approach toward identifying and treating inmates experiencing this condition, incorporating medication-assisted treatment into the correctional health services. This bill targets local correctional facilities, primarily focusing on the evaluation process for opioid use disorder and the continuity of care for affected individuals during and post-incarceration.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits in managing opioid use disorders in correctional settings, the discussions surrounding SB282 could highlight varying opinions on state involvement in the healthcare of incarcerated individuals. Supporters argue it fills a critical gap in treating addiction among inmates, while critics may express concerns regarding the adequacy of funding or the efficacy of proposed treatment methods. Furthermore, the bill's amendments to existing regulations may face scrutiny concerning balancing the institutional responsibilities of local jails and the public health obligations of the state.