The bill amends the Public Health Code to introduce a new section, 5137, which allows individuals to establish needle and hypodermic syringe access programs with authorization from the department or local government agencies. These programs aim to distribute sterile needles and hypodermic syringes to individuals and provide additional services to reduce the spread of communicable diseases. The bill also stipulates that individuals participating in these programs will not be in violation of existing laws regarding the possession or distribution of drug paraphernalia or controlled substances, provided they meet specific criteria outlined in the new section.

Additionally, the bill makes several amendments to existing sections of the Public Health Code, including changes to the language in sections 7401 and 7403 regarding the penalties for drug-related offenses. Notably, it clarifies that individuals who meet the requirements of section 5137 are exempt from violations under sections 7401 and 7403. The bill also modifies the definitions and conditions under which certain substances and paraphernalia are regulated, ensuring that health professionals and authorized programs are not penalized for their roles in public health initiatives.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.7401