This bill updates the language used in Colorado’s pharmacy statutes to reflect a more modern, clinical understanding of substance-related conditions. Specifically, it repeals the outdated definition of “drug abuse” and adds a new definition for “substance use disorder.”
1. Repeal of "Drug Abuse" Definition (Section 1)
The bill removes the old definition:
"Drug abuse" or "abuse" was defined as: “Use of a controlled substance for nonmedical purposes or in a way not meeting accepted medical standards.”
2. Addition of "Substance Use Disorder" (Section 1, New Subsection (5))
Adds a new definition:
"Substance use disorder" is defined as: “A chronic relapsing brain disease, characterized by recurrent use of alcohol, drugs, or both, leading to health problems, disability, and failure to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home.”
3. Effective Date and Referendum Clause (Section 2)
Takes effect after 90 days following the end of the legislative session
If challenged via referendum petition, it would go on the November 2026 ballot and take effect only if voter-approved
Summary
HB25-1316 replaces the stigmatizing term “drug abuse” with the more clinical and scientifically accepted term “substance use disorder.” This aligns Colorado statutes with modern medical standards and improves consistency with public health language.
Summary
Statutory Revision Committee. The bill repeals a definition of
drug abuse from, and adds a definition of substance use disorder to, the state laws regulating electronic monitoring of prescription drugs.
