CA AB1858

Authorizes the State Department of Public Health to permit entities to provide needle and syringe exchange services in areas where conditions exist for rapid spread of HIV, viral hepatitis, or other infections spread through shared needles (until January 1, 2016)

Requires applicant entities to demonstrate they provide drug abuse treatment, HIV/hepatitis screening, vaccinations, housing services, or sexual health education, and have capacity to manage safe disposal of used needles

Mandates a 45-day public comment period before department approval, with notice posted on the department's website and sent to local health officers

Protects program participants and staff from criminal prosecution for possessing needles and syringes acquired through or distributed by authorized exchange programs

Requires the State Department of Public Health to maintain a website listing addresses and contact information for exchange programs, and to submit biennial reports to specified legislative committees by November 1, 2014