HB 375 Summary

• Authorizes county health departments to operate substance abuse treatment outreach programs allowing participants to exchange hypodermic needles and syringes, with written consent from the municipality (if applicable) and county board of supervisors.

• Items exchanged at needle exchange programs shall not be deemed drug paraphernalia while located at the program facility.

• Provides immunity from prosecution for drug paraphernalia possession if a person voluntarily discloses the presence of a needle or sharp object to law enforcement before a search and admits possession; does not apply to other drug paraphernalia or controlled substances in more than trace amounts.

• Amends Section 41-29-153 to exclude needle exchange program items from drug paraphernalia forfeiture provisions.

• Effective July 1, 2017.