Update: HHS Delays Effective Date for 42 CFR Part 2 Final Rule

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), on behalf of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), published the Final Rule modifying 42 CFR Part 2, Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records, on January 18, 2017. While originally set to go into effect on February 17, 2017, the rule will now become effective on March 21, 2017. This change is in accordance with the memorandum entitled "Regulatory Freeze Pending Review," published on January 20, 2017 by the Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff (that memorandum is available here). To read the Final Rule, click here.