5417-S AMH LAMB FRAZ 25

SSB 5417 - H AMD ADOPTED 4/5/01

By Representative Lambert

     On page 1, line 14 after Aopioids.@ insert the following:

AOpiate substitution treatment should only be used for participants who are deemed appropriate to need this level of intervention and should not be the first treatment intervention for all opiate addicts.@

     On page 3, line 27 after Apopulation;@ insert the following:

A(e) Demonstrate a need in the community for opiate substitution treatment and not certify more program slots than justified by the need in that community.  No program shall exceed 350 participants unless specifically authorized by the county in which the program is certified.@

     Renumber the remaining subsections consecutively and correct any internal references accordingly. 

EFFECT: Clarifies that opiate substitution treatment should not be the first choice of treatment for all addicts.  Clarifies that the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)must demonstrate the need for opiate substitution treatment prior to certifying a program.  Limits the size of opiate substitution treatment programs to 350 participants unless the affected county has authorized a larger capacity.