Creates the substance use disorder treatment bill of rights to be posted in a conspicuous place in all treatment facilities

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brad Hoylman-Sigal and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 5969 establishes a Substance Use Disorder Treatment Bill of Rights, ensuring patients know their rights, promoting dignity and transparency in treatment facilities.

COMMITTED TO RULES

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 5969 aims to establish a Substance Use Disorder Treatment Bill of Rights that ensures individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders are informed of their rights. The intent is to promote transparency, respect, and dignity in treatment facilities, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and protecting the rights of patients.

Key Provisions

Creation of a Bill of Rights: The bill mandates the development of a comprehensive list of rights specifically for individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders.

Posting Requirements: Treatment facilities will be required to post the Bill of Rights in a conspicuous location, ensuring that all patients and their families can easily access and understand their rights.

Rights Included: While the specific rights are not detailed in the provided information, typical rights may include:

The right to informed consent regarding treatment options.
The right to privacy and confidentiality.
The right to receive respectful and non-discriminatory care.
The right to participate in treatment planning.

Affected Parties

Patients: Individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders will directly benefit from the clarity and protection of their rights.

Treatment Facilities: All facilities providing substance use disorder treatment will need to comply with the new posting requirements and ensure that staff are trained on these rights.

Families and Caregivers: Families of patients will also be informed of their loved ones' rights, enabling them to advocate more effectively for appropriate care.

Legislative Timeline

Introduced: March 4, 2025

Referred to Committee: The bill was referred to the Committee on Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders on the same day it was introduced.

Advancement: The bill advanced to the third reading on May 28, 2025, following a series of reports and calendar placements.

Current Status: As of June 13, 2025, the bill has been committed to rules, indicating it is awaiting further legislative action.

Related Bills

This bill is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- S 1543
- S 913
- S 4447
- S 3408
- S 4599
- S 5054
- S 6009
- A 2300 (companion bill)

These related bills may address similar issues or provide additional context regarding the legislative landscape surrounding substance use disorder treatment.

Conclusion

Bill S 5969 represents a significant step towards enhancing the rights of individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders. By establishing a clear Bill of Rights and ensuring its visibility in treatment facilities, the legislation seeks to foster an environment of respect and informed care for patients.

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