MI HB5178

Establishes needle and hypodermic syringe access programs authorized by the Michigan Department of Health or local government agencies to distribute sterile needles and syringes to reduce communicable disease transmission.

Provides legal protection for individuals participating in authorized syringe access programs, exempting them from prosecution for possession, distribution, or delivery of needles, syringes, drug paraphernalia, and trace amounts of controlled substances or xylazine.

Adds xylazine as a controlled substance subject to criminal penalties, with violations punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment or a $15,000 fine.

Clarifies that participation in a syringe access program can be proven through testimony, program cards, or sign-in sheets.

Exempts licensed health professionals who sell drug paraphernalia in their professional capacity from paraphernalia sales prohibitions and updates references to the occupational code.