MD HB498

Repeals the blanket certificate of need (CON) exemption for bed capacity changes at intermediate care facilities offering residential or intensive substance use disorder treatment services

Creates a new pathway for bed capacity changes at intermediate care facilities offering medically managed residential substance use disorder treatment, requiring 45 days written notice and Commission approval based on consistency with the State health plan, efficient service delivery, and public interest

Exempts from CON requirements the establishment or operation of new intermediate care facilities offering medically managed residential substance use disorder treatment services, subject to 45 days notice and Commission discretionary approval under the same criteria

Maintains the existing CON exemption for bed capacity changes at licensed general hospice programs with 45 days notice

Effective October 1, 2026