This bill seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by repealing existing provisions related to syringe services programs and establishing new regulations under a newly designated article, 16-64A. The bill declares syringe services programs unlawful in the state, requiring all existing programs to cease operations by the effective date of the new law. However, it allows for the continuation of harm reduction services, provided they do not include syringe exchange services. Additionally, a 120-day administrative transition period is permitted to assist patients in transitioning to alternative care without providing any syringe exchange services during this time.

The bill also introduces civil penalties for noncompliance, imposing fines of up to $2,500 per day for individuals or operators who continue to run syringe services programs after the effective date. The Office of Health Facilities Licensure and Certification is granted the authority to seek injunctive relief to enforce these provisions. Overall, the legislation aims to eliminate syringe services while allowing for certain harm reduction efforts to continue under strict conditions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 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, 16-64A-1, 16-64A-2, 16-64A-3, 16-64A-4