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H 2197

An Act ensuring access to addiction services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 3 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expanding addiction treatment service access through committee review; reporting deadline March 2026.

Accompanied a study order, see H5338 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 2197

Legislative bill overview

H 2197 is a Massachusetts bill designed to expand and improve access to addiction treatment services across the state. The legislation was referred to the Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery committee in February 2025 and is currently in the committee review process, with a reporting deadline set for March 18, 2026.

Why is this important

Massachusetts, like many states, faces significant challenges with substance use disorder treatment access, including long wait times, geographic disparities, and inadequate insurance coverage. Expanding addiction services addresses both public health outcomes and economic costs associated with untreated addiction, including emergency healthcare utilization, criminal justice involvement, and lost productivity.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: Whether the bill specifies new revenue sources or relies on existing budgets; fiscal impact on state finances
  • Service definitions and standards: What types of addiction services are mandated (medication-assisted treatment, counseling, residential care, etc.) and whether standards are uniform or flexible
  • Insurance requirements: Whether the bill imposes additional coverage mandates on private insurers, potentially raising premium costs for consumers
  • Implementation timelines: Whether rapid implementation creates operational burden on existing providers versus phased approaches that delay access improvements
  • Geographic equity: How rural versus urban areas will achieve equitable access, particularly regarding telehealth versus in-person services

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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