HB 579 Summary

• Alabama Department of Public Health shall establish a needle and syringe exchange program and may authorize local programs through local health departments or other local organizations.

• Program shall provide free and confidential needle and syringe exchanges, supply first-time applicants with 30 needles and syringes plus educational materials and drug counseling service lists, and offer HIV transmission and prevention education.

• Program must be incorporated into existing HIV prevention programs and assist participants in obtaining drug treatment services.

• Department shall monitor needle and syringe return rates, program participation rates, and the number of participants entering treatment as a result of the program, with all organizations submitting quarterly effectiveness reports.

• Program participants cannot be convicted of drug paraphernalia possession under Alabama Code Section 13A-12-260 for receiving or returning needles or syringes under the program.