Client Treatment Records; research; access, Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 9-2-126

Client Treatment Records; Research; Access; Disclosure; Penalties
 
Permits the Department of Health to disclose a mental health or substance abuse treatment client’s individually identifiable record to researchers if the client or their representative authorizes the disclosure in writing. Permits the Department to disclose client information without authorization if the Department creates an IRB process, the researchers sign a data use agreement that requires them to maintain the confidentiality of client information, and federal law does not otherwise prohibit disclosure.  Classifies unauthorized disclosures of individually identifiable information as misdemeanors subject to a maximum $10,000 fine, six months imprisonment, or both. Permits clients seek damages for unauthorized disclosures in a civil suit.