Senate approves $250 cap on out‑of‑pocket costs for outpatient substance use disorder treatment

The New York State Senate passed a bill on Wednesday that places a $250 cap on out‑of‑pocket costs for outpatient substance use disorder treatment.

Senator Liz Fernandez, sponsor of the bill on the floor, argued the measure would reduce financial barriers that can cause patients to stop outpatient care. “For individuals in recovery, especially those in outpatient programs, care often requires showing up multiple times a week. Each visit can bring a new co pay, and over time, these costs add up,” Fernandez said. “This bill helps to prevent that.”

Floor clerks recorded the measure as approved by the Senate. The transcript shows the roll call as "ayes 53, nays 3." The floor debate focused on access and continuity of care; supporters said the cap will reduce interruptions in treatment, while opponents were recorded in the minority on final passage.

The bill was discussed under the public‑health legislative package and proponents credited advocacy groups for their work. The transcript does not specify the bill’s implementation schedule or funding offsets; the floor reading and sponsor’s remarks describe the policy change but do not provide a detailed fiscal note on the record.