Advocacy Alert: September 2019 Legislative News Round Up

October 3, 2019

For those of you who follow us on social media know, we post regularly news stories that are connected to the behavioral health and addiction treatment industry. Many of these are news stories regarding legislation, and so we decided that once a month we would send out a 'news roundup' of related news stories we've posted. Unless otherwise stated, BHAP has no official stance on any of these stories: the intention is to share so that we're all better informed as to what's happening.

A reminder that BHAP members get access to a monthly call with our advocate in Washington, DC, to find out what is going on and ask any questions you may have. Feel free to contact us for more information on that.

The SUPPORT Act Affords Practitioners Greater Flexibility
The SUPPORT Act extends the privilege of prescribing buprenorphine in office-based settings to Clinical Nurse Specialists, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, and Certified Nurse Midwives (CNSs, CRNSs, and CNMs)* until October 1, 2023. posted 9/9/19

CT | Regulatory Update: New Connecticut Statutes Affecting Health Care Providers
The 2019 legislative session of the Connecticut General Assembly produced a number of new statutes that impact hospitals and other health care providers, many of which are scheduled to take effect on October 1. posted 9/22/19

CA | Governor Gets Bills that Would Crack Down on Addiction Treatment Scams, Raise Standards
Newsom has until Oct. 13 to act on the biggest crop of reform legislation to date. Hopes are high. posted 9/25/19

Frequently Asked Questions About The Marchman Act
Families of individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders ask many questions about the Marchman Act. posted 9/26/19

MI | Michigan Counselors Fear New License Rules will Disrupt Mental Health Care for Thousands
Proposed updates to licensing rules for counselors in Michigan could disrupt mental health care for close to 150,000 Michigan residents, leaders of a professional counseling group say. posted 9/29/19

Rep Ruiz and Chairman Pallone Introduce Bills to Address Native American Health Disparities
Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz and Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. introduced two bills to address health disparities and improve behavioral health resources in Native American communities. posted 9/30/19