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SB 2281

Opioids - As introduced, removes nonresidential substitution-based treatment centers for opiate addiction from the requirement of obtaining a certificate of need beginning July 1, 2026. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 11 and Chapter 985 of the Public Acts of 2024.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Richard Briggs

Exempts nonresidential opioid substitution treatment centers from state Certificate of Need approval requirements starting July 2026, removing regulatory barriers to facility expansion.

Assigned to General Subcommittee of Senate State and Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 2281

Legislative bill overview

SB 2281 exempts nonresidential substitution-based treatment centers for opioid addiction from Tennessee's Certificate of Need (CON) requirement, effective July 1, 2026. This removes a regulatory barrier that currently requires these facilities to obtain state approval before opening or expanding operations.

Why is this important

Certificate of Need requirements can significantly delay or prevent new treatment facilities from opening by requiring lengthy approval processes and proof of community need. Removing this barrier could expand access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction, potentially addressing treatment gaps in underserved areas. This is particularly relevant given Tennessee's ongoing opioid crisis and the demand for accessible addiction treatment.

Potential points of contention

  • Market saturation concerns: Without CON requirements, opponents worry facilities might concentrate in profitable urban areas rather than underserved rural communities, potentially worsening disparities
  • Quality and oversight: Removing CON oversight could raise concerns about adequacy of clinical staffing, standards of care, and patient safety without state capacity planning
  • Existing provider competition: Established treatment providers may oppose removing barriers that protected their market position and operational planning assumptions
  • Selectivity of exemption: The bill applies only to nonresidential substitution-based centers, creating unequal regulatory treatment that may disadvantage other addiction treatment modalities

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

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