Legislation co-sponsored by state Sen.

Don White, R-41st, setting limits on transportation for methadone clients who are part of the Medical Assistance Transportation program is headed to the governor’s desk for his signature“There were cases identified where individuals were intentionally traveling to clinics further away from their homes or otherwise submitting fraudulent or questionable requests for mileage reimbursements, White said.“This bill does not limit treatment, but rather sets reasonable limits and requirements to ensure taxpayers’ money is spent prudently.”Under the measure, which got Senate approval Wednesday, individuals receiving payments for mileage reimbursements or using public transportation would be required to go to the clinic closest to their residence.Currently, methadone recipients choose their preferred service location.Transportation costs totaled $32.5 million in 2009-10, an increase of 26.3 percent from 2007-08. More than one in three trips paid for through MATP is for methadone maintenance.