WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 596

An act relating to completion of a mental health screening after administration of an opioid antagonist

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Boutin

Mandates a post-naloxone mental health screening to identify needs and link individuals to appropriate mental health or crisis services.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Human Services
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 596

Overview

H 596 (2025-2026) from Vermont aims to ensure that a mental health screening is completed after the administration of an opioid antagonist. The bill was introduced and referred to the Committee on Human Services on January 7, 2026. Co-sponsor: Michael Boutin.

Purpose and intent

  • To mandate or require completion of a mental health screening following administration of an opioid antagonist (e.g., naloxone) in a given setting.
  • The goal is to identify any underlying mental health needs or crisis that may accompany an opioid overdose event and to connect individuals with appropriate services or treatment.

Key provisions and changes (as currently described)

  • Requirement for mental health screening: The bill establishes that a mental health screening should be completed after the administration of an opioid antagonist. Details such as who administers the screening, where it occurs (e.g., EMS, hospital, crisis service), and the exact timing are not specified in the provided summary but would be defined in the bill text.
  • Screening standards: The bill would likely specify standards or tools for the screening (e.g., validated screening instruments, procedures for assessment, and confidentiality or consent considerations). The precise instruments and thresholds would be detailed in the enacted text.
  • Linkage to services: Provisions typically include a requirement to refer or connect the individual to appropriate mental health or substance use treatment resources, including crisis services, counseling, or scheduling follow-up care.
  • Documentation and reporting: Possible requirements for documenting the screening results, actions taken, and referrals, as well as reporting obligations to relevant state agencies or local providers.
  • Privacy and consent: Provisions addressing patient privacy, data handling, and consent for screening and sharing information with service providers, while balancing public health needs.

Who would be affected

  • Individuals who receive an opioid antagonist administration (e.g., naloxone) in settings such as emergency medical services, hospitals, or other responding entities.
  • First responders, EMS personnel, emergency departments, and healthcare providers involved in post-overdose care.
  • Mental health and substance use treatment providers who receive referrals or need to conduct follow-up assessments.
  • State and local agencies responsible for substance use disorder, mental health, and emergency response systems.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Status: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Human Services (as of 2026-01-07).
  • Next steps: The bill would undergo committee review, potential amendments, and, if advanced, floor action in the Vermont General Assembly. Key milestones typically include committee votes, potential fiscal notes, and any required regulatory or implementation timelines.
  • Implementation timeline (typical expectations): If enacted, there would likely be a specified effective date after passage, with phased implementation for systems and providers (training, workflows, and data collection).

Potential impact

  • Public health: Enhances identification of mental health needs following overdose events, potentially increasing access to timely care.
  • Care coordination: Improves linkage to treatment and crisis services, aiming to reduce repeat overdoses and improve outcomes.
  • Data and accountability: Creates opportunities for better data on post-overdose mental health needs and service utilization.

Note: The summary reflects the bill’s stated purpose and typical provisions related to post-overdose mental health screening. For precise language, definitions, applicable settings, screening tools, implementation timelines, and any fiscal impact, the bill text and committee amendments should be consulted.

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

Sign in to ask a question.