FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 876

                                  C 410 L 87

BYHouse Committee on Human Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Brough, Leonard, Scott, Allen, Brekke, Locke, Belcher, Patrick, Cole, Braddock, Rust, Lux and May)

Changing certification requirements for methadone treatment programs.

House Committe on Human Services

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

In 1986, the Department of Social and Health Services was directed to establish standards for methadone treatment centers operating in Washington state.  Although the department is authorized to certify programs complying with these standards, county legislative authorities may prohibit the operation of programs within the county.  Counties may also license treatment programs and limit the number of programs.  However, the limitation of programs must be based on population, and the number of programs may not be less than the number certified as of March 12, 1986, the effective date of the 1986 act.

SUMMARY:

Methadone is declared as an addictive substance but is recognized for its importance in treatment of persons addicted to opioids.  The goal of methadone treatment is stated to be drug-free living for individuals participating in the treatment program.  The state asserts the right to regulate the clinical uses of methadone treatment, but declares that there is no fundamental individual right to methadone treatment.

The Department of Social and Health Services is required to establish statewide operating standards for methadone treatment centers no later than August 1, 1987, and report the standards to the legislature prior to the 1988 regular session.

County legislative authorities may prohibit methadone treatment programs in the county.  If programs are allowed, the county licensing program must limit the number of programs and monitor the programs for compliance with standards developed by the department.  Counties are required to adopt licensing standards that are consistent with departmental standards.  Counties may operate methadone treatment programs directly through local health departments or health districts, or license and authorize certified programs.  All programs must comply with operating standards within 90 days after adoption of standards or 90 days after August 1, 1987, whichever is earlier.  Counties are also required to give preference for licensure to programs existing on the effective date of the act.  A methadone program may serve no more than 350 clients, but programs exceeding this limit may reduce their caseload by attrition.

The department or a county may not discriminate on the basis of corporate status in certifying or licensing programs.  Programs denied licenses or certifications must be given written notice of the reasons for denial.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 74  20

      Senate    49     0(Senate amended)

      House 81  15(House concurred)

EFFECTIVE:May 18, 1987