Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2109

Introduced
1/16/26  

Caption

Prohibits health benefit plans reviewing prescriptions for opioid addiction treatment.

Impact

If enacted, S2109 would significantly alter how health benefit plans conduct utilization reviews for medications related to opioid and alcohol dependency. By preventing reviews for these specific treatments, the bill seeks to eliminate barriers that patients often face when obtaining necessary medications. This change is expected to lead to better treatment adherence and improved health outcomes for individuals suffering from substance use disorders, as they would not have to navigate complex review processes to access their prescriptions.

Summary

S2109, introduced in January 2026, aims to amend the Benefit Determination and Utilization Review Act by prohibiting health insurers and pharmacy benefit managers from requiring utilization reviews for specific prescription medicines used in the treatment of alcohol and opioid use disorders. The bill specifically protects medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, which are crucial for managing these disorders and preventing withdrawal symptoms. This measure is intended to enhance access to effective treatment options for individuals struggling with addiction.

Contention

The discussions surrounding S2109 could revolve around concerns regarding the balance between patient care and the insurers' ability to manage healthcare costs. Critics may argue that by eliminating the review process, there could be a potential for increased costs for insurance providers, as they might end up covering prescriptions without sufficient oversight. Supporters, on the other hand, will likely emphasize the urgent need for timely and adequate access to treatment for individuals facing addiction, underlining the societal benefits of reducing barriers to care.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0271

Prohibits health benefit plans reviewing prescriptions for opioid addiction treatment.

RI H5024

Prohibits health benefit plans reviewing prescriptions for opioid addiction treatment.

RI H6317

Prohibits an insurer from imposing a requirement of prior authorization for any admission, item, service, treatment, test, exam, study, procedure, or any generic or brand name prescription drug ordered by a primary care provider.

RI S0143

Establishes a program within the adult correctional institution to permit medication assisted treatment approved by the FDA to be provided for the treatment of opioid use disorder to any incarcerated individual.

RI H6254

Authorizes office of health and human services (EOHHS) to establish coverage for obesity treatments, including medication. Office of health and human services would seek a 1115(a) waiver.

RI S0684

Prohibits a policy of individual health insurance coverage from requiring prior authorization for prescriptions of generic medication.

RI S0054

Prohibits health insurance providers from requiring preauthorization for in- network mental health or substance use disorder services.

RI H5432

This act would prohibit health insurance providers from requiring preauthorization for in- network mental health or substance use disorder services.

RI S0221

Provides certain controls over prescription drug costs by imposing transparency, oversight and accountability requirements on commercial insurers and their pharmacy benefit managers.

RI H5429

Provides certain controls over prescription drug costs by imposing transparency, oversight and accountability requirements on commercial insurers and their pharmacy benefit managers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.