HB 24-1045 Summary

• Prohibits health insurance carriers from requiring prior authorization for substance use disorder medications based solely on dosage amount.

• Expands pharmacists' authority to prescribe, dispense, and administer FDA-approved opioid use disorder medications including buprenorphine, with boards to establish statewide protocols by May 1, 2025.

• Allows licensed clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, and professional counselors to supervise addiction technician and specialist certifications if they meet specified addiction counselor education requirements.

• Establishes medication-assisted treatment access for incarcerated individuals through Medicaid by July 1, 2025 for juvenile and corrections facilities and July 1, 2026 for county jails, contingent on federal authorization and demonstrated commitment to diversion programs.

• Appropriates $2.7 million for fiscal year 2024-25 to support behavioral health administration programs, contingency management grants for stimulant use disorder treatment, and criminal justice diversion initiatives.