NC H681

Directs the Commission for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services to amend state rules for outpatient opioid treatment programs (OTPs) to align with federal regulations under 42 C.F.R. Part 8

Removes stability of home environment and social relationships as eligibility criteria for take-home medication

Requires the State Opioid Treatment Authority to review patient discharge policies related to continued substance use, missed doses, and nonparticipation in counseling services

Reduces required drug testing frequency and removes structured counseling schedules to allow more flexible, individualized patient care

Permits OTPs to administer methadone to verified patients enrolled at other OTPs; proposed amended rules must be published by January 1, 2026