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SB 5361

Delaying the use of the ASAM 4 criteria, treatment criteria for addictive, substance related, and co-occurring conditions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Manka Dhingra and 2 co-sponsors

Washington delays mandatory ASAM 4 substance disorder assessment criteria implementation to allow healthcare providers extended transition time for systems and staff preparation.

Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 5361

Legislative bill overview

SB 5361 delays Washington's implementation of ASAM 4 criteria (a standardized assessment framework for substance use disorder treatment) beyond its originally scheduled date. The bill extends the timeline for adopting these clinical criteria for determining appropriate levels of care for individuals with addiction and co-occurring conditions.

Why is this important

ASAM criteria determine which treatment settings (outpatient, intensive outpatient, residential, etc.) are appropriate for patients, directly affecting access to care and treatment placement decisions. This delay gives healthcare providers, insurers, and treatment facilities additional time to prepare systems, staff training, and infrastructure before mandatory implementation.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden vs. clinical standardization: Critics may argue delays prevent adoption of evidence-based uniform criteria, while supporters contend providers need adequate transition time to avoid disruptions
  • Treatment access equity: Extended delays could perpetuate inconsistent placement decisions across providers and regions, potentially disadvantaging some patients
  • Resource allocation: Healthcare systems must decide whether to prepare for ASAM 4 during the delay period or wait until closer to the new deadline, creating planning uncertainty

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

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