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 certain 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 possession and distribution of controlled substances. Notably, it clarifies that individuals who meet the requirements of section 5137 are not in violation of these sections. The bill also includes provisions for health professionals selling drug paraphernalia in their professional capacity and outlines the conditions under which individuals can be exempt from prosecution for seeking medical assistance in drug-related emergencies.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.7401