AN ACT

RELATING TO HEALTH; PROVIDING FOR THE REGULATION OF METHADONE CLINICS BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO:

Section 1. METHADONE CLINICS--REGULATION BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.--

A. The federal government requires the state to approve the establishment of all new methadone clinics. In an effort to maintain compliance with the federal requirement, the department of health shall regulate the establishment and continuance of methadone clinics in New Mexico in accordance with its powers and duties as the state's public health agency and drug abuse agency.

B. In regulating methadone clinics, the department of health shall perform an assessment of the need for clinics and develop clinical and administrative standards as required by federal law. The department may consider other factors it deems necessary to ensure the provision of drug abuse treatment services and the protection of the health and safety of New Mexico citizens.

C. For the purposes of this section, "methadone clinic" means a public or private facility that dispenses methadone for the detoxification treatment or maintenance treatment of narcotic addicts.

Section 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.--The effective date of the provisions of this act is July 1, 2003.

HB 36

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