The bill amends the licensing requirements for syringe services programs in West Virginia, specifically under section 16-64-2 of the Code of West Virginia. It mandates that all new and existing syringe services programs must obtain a license from the Office for Health Facility Licensure and Certification. To qualify for this license, programs must submit an application that includes details such as the program's name, a description of associated harm reduction services, contact information for the program administrator, operational hours, staffing details, and the program's capacity to facilitate entry into substance use treatment and encourage the use of medical and mental health services.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for the application process. It removes the previous requirement for a written statement of support from local governing bodies and replaces it with a requirement for programs not operated by a local health department to provide a written statement of affiliation with a local health department in the proposed service area. This change aims to enhance coordination of services and ensure compliance with the article's requirements. The application fee remains capped at $500, as determined by the director through legislative rule.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-64A-1, 16-64A-2, 16-64A-3, 16-64A-4, 16-64-1, 16-64-2, 16-64-3, 16-64-4, 16-64-5, 16-64-6, 16-64-7, 16-64-8, 16-64-9, 16-64-10
Committee Substitute: 16-64-2