CA AB1743

Extends authorization for pharmacists and physicians to furnish hypodermic needles and syringes without prescription or permit to persons 18 years or older for personal use until January 1, 2021 (previously set to expire January 1, 2015)

Removes quantity limits on needle and syringe distribution, allowing unlimited amounts to be furnished for personal use as a public health measure to prevent transmission of HIV, viral hepatitis, and other bloodborne diseases

Exempts possession of any amount of hypodermic needles and syringes acquired from authorized sources (physicians, pharmacists, needle exchange programs) from drug paraphernalia laws until January 1, 2021

Requires pharmacies furnishing nonprescription needles and syringes to provide consumers with counseling on drug treatment access, HIV and hepatitis C testing and treatment, and safe disposal options

Mandates pharmacies and needle exchange programs offer safe disposal options including onsite collection programs, mail-back sharps containers, or sharps containers meeting state and federal standards