Budget Amendment ID: FY2012-S3-94-R1

Redraft JUD 94

Treatment to Reduce Recidivism

Mr. Tolman moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section 145 the following new section:-

“SECTION 145A. Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, the department of public health shall, in collaboration with the department of correction and the Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association, investigate and make recommendations regarding the use of a FDA-approved, non-narcotic, opioid antagonist therapy for opioid-dependent offenders leaving correctional facilities and transitioning to community based treatment programs. The department shall report its recommendations to the joint committee on mental health and substance abuse and the house and senate committees on ways and means not later than January 2, 2012.

If the department determines that use of a FDA-approved, non-narcotic, opioid antagonist therapy for opioid-dependent offenders leaving correctional facilities and transitioning to community based treatment programs is likely to be effective in improving treatment outcomes and reducing recidivism, the department may enter into pilot programs to provide voluntary treatment for opioid-dependent offenders with select sheriff’s offices that choose to participate.”