The bill amends Chapter 23-12.10 of the General Laws, changing its title to "HARM REDUCTION CENTER ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND PROGRAM." It establishes a pilot program aimed at preventing drug overdoses through the creation of harm reduction centers, which are community-based resources for health screening, disease prevention, and recovery assistance. The operation of these centers requires municipal authorization and approval, which includes an affirmative vote from the local governing body.

Additionally, the bill extends the sunset provision of the pilot program by two years, moving the expiration date from March 1, 2026, to March 1, 2028. It mandates that by January 31, 2028, the director of the department of health and the attorney general must submit a report to key government officials detailing the number of individuals served by each harm reduction center, connections to health services, and data on overdose occurrences and prevention. This report will also include recommendations regarding the continuation of the program.

Statutes affected:
462: 23-12.10-1, 23-12.10-6