The bill, HB 73, seeks to improve the state's response to alcohol and drug misuse by redefining key terms and establishing a comprehensive Substance Use Disorder Access Point program. It amends the existing framework of the Governor's Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery by replacing the term "abuse" with "misuse" throughout the text, reflecting a shift towards a health-oriented perspective. The commission will now include members with expertise in harm reduction and societal impacts, and it will create task forces focused on prevention, treatment, recovery, and program evaluation. The bill also introduces a new definition of "harm reduction," emphasizing strategies to prevent negative outcomes associated with substance use.

Additionally, HB 73 mandates the development of a statewide plan to address the causes and impacts of drug misuse, prioritizing unmet needs for prevention and treatment. It encourages collaboration with law enforcement and local agencies to coordinate efforts and minimize service duplication. The bill allows state funds, including those from the New Hampshire opioid litigation settlement, to support syringe service programs and defines "drug checking" and "drug misuse" to clarify eligible activities for funding. Overall, the bill aims to create a more integrated approach to addressing substance use disorders, with a focus on harm reduction, prevention, and recovery services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-J:1, 12-J:5, 318-B:43, 318-B:1
As Amended by the House: 12-J:1, 12-J:5, 318-B:43, 318-B:1
Version adopted by both bodies: 12-J:1, 12-J:5, 318-B:43, 318-B:1