WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 65

Medication Assisted Treatment Amendments

2025 General Session Introduced by Steve Eliason and 1 co-sponsor

Utah Governor signs SB 65 to expand medication-assisted treatment access for opioid addiction by modifying prescribing rules and provider licensing requirements.

Governor Signed
#business #controlledsubstances #departmentofhealthandhumanservices #healthbenefitsandclaims #healthinsurance #healthandhumanservices #insurance #officeoflicensingandbackgroundchecks #opioids #publicemployeesinsuranceandbenefits #publicretirementandinsurance #substanceabuse
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 65

Legislative bill overview

SB 65 amends Utah's medication-assisted treatment (MAT) regulations to expand access and flexibility in opioid addiction treatment. The bill modifies prescribing requirements, treatment protocols, and licensing standards for providers offering medications like methadone and buprenorphine to individuals with opioid use disorder.

Why is this important

Utah, like many states, faces a significant opioid crisis with rising overdose deaths. MAT programs are evidence-based interventions that reduce addiction severity, overdose risk, and criminal justice involvement. Expanding MAT access can save lives and reduce healthcare and criminal justice costs while improving treatment outcomes for thousands of Utahns struggling with opioid dependence.

Potential points of contention

  • Provider capacity concerns: Expanding prescribing authority may dilute quality if provider training and oversight standards aren't strengthened alongside access expansion
  • Community opposition: Some neighborhoods and local governments historically resist MAT facility placement, citing stigma and public safety concerns despite evidence of safety
  • Insurance and cost implications: Expanded access may increase state healthcare spending, raising questions about funding sustainability and whether coverage requirements adequately incentivize provider participation

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

Sign in to ask a question.