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SB 384

Health: pharmaceuticals; delivery of prescription drugs associated with medically assisted treatment programs in county jails; allow. Amends sec. 17745a of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.17745a).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sarah Anthony

Michigan bill authorizes county jails to provide prescription medications for opioid addiction treatment to incarcerated individuals, expanding healthcare access during detention.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH POLICY
#corrections:jails #health:pharmaceuticals #stateagencies(existing):licensingandregulatoryaffairs
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Bill Summary · SB 384

Legislative bill overview

SB 384 would amend Michigan law to allow county jails to deliver prescription medications used in medically assisted treatment (MAT) programs, such as methadone or buprenorphine, to incarcerated individuals. Currently, the law restricts this capability, creating gaps in substance use disorder treatment for jail inmates.

Why is this important

Medically assisted treatment is evidence-based care that reduces overdose deaths, criminal recidivism, and withdrawal symptoms. Interrupting MAT during incarceration can trigger relapse and increase overdose risk upon release—a critical public health concern since jail populations have high rates of opioid use disorders. This bill addresses a treatment access gap that affects both individual health outcomes and public safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: County jails may face expenses for medication procurement, staff training, and secure storage protocols
  • Drug diversion concerns: Some stakeholders may worry about medication being diverted or misused within jail facilities, requiring robust security measures
  • Liability and oversight: Questions about which entities bear responsibility if adverse events occur and what state regulations will govern jail-based MAT administration
  • Resource allocation: Whether counties have sufficient medical staff to safely administer and monitor these medications in jail settings

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

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