Title: An act relating to drug use among pregnant women.

Brief Description: Providing information to pregnant women about opiate treatment programs.

Sponsors: Representatives Dickerson, Roach, Simpson, Upthegrove, Ormsby, Chase, Roberts and Darneille; by request of Lieutenant Governor.

Brief History: Passed House: 3/09/05, 97-0.

Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 3/24/05, 3/31/05 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Hargrove, Chair; Regala, Vice Chair; Stevens, Ranking Minority Member; Brandland, Carrell, McAuliffe and Thibaudeau.

Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)

Background: The Department of Social and Health Services regulates the certification of programs for alcoholism and other drug addiction treatment. Drug treatment programs which treat opiate addiction, typically utilize methadone to treat those addicted to opiates. Methadone is the most widely known pharmacologic treatment for opioid dependence. Methadone is a controlled substance. It is a long-acting opiate, itself addictive, having a potential for abuse both by opiate addicts and by nonaddicts. Under certain circumstances, methadone, like any other opiate, can be dangerous and life-threatening.

Summary of Bill: The Department of Social and Health Services is directed to adopt rules requiring opiate treatment programs to educate pregnant women participating in their treatment program regarding the risks and benefits of methadone treatment to their fetus. This information is to be provided as part of their treatment.

Opiate substitution treatment programs treating pregnant women are required to provide current information concerning the possible addiction and health risks this treatment may have on their baby. They must also be informed of the risks associated with not remaining on this treatment program. Information must be provided verbally and in writing.

The Department of Social and Health Services will develop and disseminate these educational materials to all certified opiate treatment programs.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For: Pregnant women participating in drug treatment programs must have up to date information so that infants can get appropriate treatment. This bill is about getting that treatment for babies.

Testimony Against: None.

Who Testified: PRO: Antonio Sanchez, Brian Hatfield, Office of the Lieutenant Governor.