HB 4413
Making syringe exchange service programs unlawful
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill makes syringe exchange service programs illegal in West Virginia. It repeals existing sections of state code related to these programs and adds a new article declaring syringe services programs unlawful. The bill establishes a 120-day transition period for existing programs to close, while allowing for the continuation of harm reduction services that do not involve syringe distribution. Violations of the law will result in civil penalties.
Key provisions
- Syringe exchange service programs are declared unlawful.
- An administrative transition period of 120 days is provided for existing programs to close.
- Harm reduction services (excluding syringe exchange) may continue to operate.
- The Director of the Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification can impose civil penalties of up to $2,500 per day for operating an unlawful syringe services program.
- The Office of Health Facilities Licensure and Certification can seek injunctive relief to enforce the law.
- Definitions are provided for key terms such as ‘Director,’ ‘Harm Reduction Program,’ and ‘Syringe Services Program.’
- A harm reduction program is defined as a program that provides referrals to substance use disorder treatment programs.
- The bill repeals existing sections of code related to the regulation and operation of syringe exchange programs.
Who is affected
- Individuals who utilize syringe exchange programs.
- Organizations that operate syringe exchange programs.
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