The New Hampshire Senate Health and Human Services Committee convened on January 29, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 123, which aims to require coverage for ear acupuncture and substance misuse treatment under state Medicaid plans. Senator Victoria Sullivan, representing Senate District 18, introduced the bill, emphasizing the urgent need for alternative treatment options in light of the ongoing opioid crisis affecting New Hampshire, particularly in Manchester.

Senator Sullivan shared her personal experiences working with individuals in recovery, highlighting her role as chairperson of a faith-based sober home and director of a nonprofit staffing agency that employs people in recovery. She expressed concern that current treatment methods, such as methadone and Suboxone, while lifesaving, often hinder individuals from achieving stable employment due to their dependence on clinic schedules.

The senator advocated for ear acupuncture as a complementary treatment that could alleviate cravings and address related issues such as depression and insomnia. She argued that incorporating this therapy into Medicaid coverage could provide a vital resource for those seeking to reclaim their lives from addiction.

The committee meeting included testimonies from experts in the field, who supported the bill and its potential benefits for individuals in recovery. Senator Sullivan concluded her remarks by inviting questions from the committee, indicating a collaborative approach to refining the proposed legislation.

The discussion around Senate Bill 123 underscores a growing recognition of the need for diverse treatment options in addressing substance misuse, aiming to enhance recovery outcomes and improve the quality of life for affected individuals in New Hampshire.