Under the heading of "Forewarned is Forearmed," substance abuse providers should be aware of several bills that seek to restrict methadone maintenance facilities. Of most immediate concern is HB 132, which makes it unlawful for any methadone maintenance facility to operate within 2,500 feet of "a church, charitable institution, school, or public park or public playground," or if the Department of Health believes that the facility "would be detrimental to the health, welfare, peace or morals" of the neighbors within 2,500 feet. The bill also requires criminal background checks on all employees. HB 132 has passed the House and is in the Senate Public Health & Welfare Committee. Although no action is planned on it immediately, it could move at any time.
HB 140 is essentially the same as HB 132, but is still in the House Health & Human Services Committee. HB 372 requires a public hearing and approval of the governing body of the municipality in which the center is to be located. Such approval shall be granted "only if the governing body determines that the operation of the center will not jeopardize the public health, safety or welfare of the residents in the municipality."
Although these bills are not slated for immediate action, providers are urged to contact their local legislators to discuss these proposals. Legislation of this sort is often drafted in response to local problems, and providers can be instrumental in educating lawmakers about the value of methadone programs.
ACTION: Call, write, or invite legislators and staff to visit your centers to explain the importance of your programs - you are your own best advocate.