AZ SB1451

Creates new criminal offense of unlawful patient brokering by prohibiting offers or payments of commissions, bonuses, rebates, kickbacks, or bribes for referring patients to substance use disorder treatment facilities or sober living homes.

Establishes tiered felony penalties based on consideration value: Class 3 felony for $1,000 or more, Class 4 felony for $100-$999, and Class 6 felony for $100 or less.

Applies to health care providers, health care facilities, and sober living homes that provide substance use disorder services.

Defines "sober living home" as alcohol-free or drug-free housing that promotes independent living, may provide recovery-focused activities, houses unrelated individuals in recovery, and does not provide medical services or medication administration except abstinence verification.

Effective date: April 12, 2018 (approved by Governor).