An act relating to opioid use disorder response services

This bill requires the Vermont Department of Health to report on needle exchange program guidelines and explore options for peer-operated programs, while also clarifying that needles and syringes distributed through approved community-based programs are not considered drug paraphernalia. It mandates that Medicaid coverage for medication-assisted treatment of opioid use disorder be provided without prior authorization when prescribed by licensed healthcare professionals within state guidelines, and removes prior authorization requirements for associated counseling and behavioral therapies. The legislation also directs the Department of Vermont Health Access to conduct research on medication quantity limits, preferred medications, and pharmacy override procedures, with findings to be reported to state committees by January 2024.