CT SB00195

Authorizes the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to establish a pilot program with overdose prevention centers in four municipalities, where individuals can safely consume controlled substances under observation of licensed health care providers who can administer opioid antagonists in case of overdose.

Overdose prevention centers would provide substance use disorder counseling, drug testing strips, educational information about opioid antagonists and disease risks from needle sharing, treatment referrals, and basic support services including laundry, bathroom, shower, and rest areas.

Grants licensed health care providers participating in the pilot program immunity from civil liability, criminal prosecution, and professional disciplinary action for administering opioid antagonists or participating in the program.

Prohibits use of state funds for the pilot program; the department may only accept private donations and grants for implementation and operation.

Requires the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services to report to the General Assembly's public health committee by January 1, 2028, on the pilot program's operation and recommendations for establishing permanent overdose prevention centers.