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NY S09221
Bill
Status
2/17/2026
Primary Sponsor
Christopher Ryan
Click for details
AI Summary
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Establishes a free drug test strip program through the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services to detect medetomidine, benzodiazepine, nitazenes, and other harmful contaminants in drugs
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Authorizes distribution of test strips at hospital emergency rooms, addiction treatment facilities, substance use disorder programs, homeless shelters, urgent care centers, mobile medication units, and other settings accessed by individuals with substance use disorders
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Prohibits law enforcement from targeting individuals obtaining test strips at authorized distribution facilities
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Requires the OASAS commissioner and Department of Health commissioner to jointly develop a public awareness campaign on the dangers of these contaminants and the availability of free test strips
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Takes effect 180 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization to develop necessary implementing regulations
Legislative Description
Directs the commissioner of the office of alcoholism and substance abuse services to establish a program for individuals to receive free drug test strips to detect the presence of medetomidine, benzodiazepine, nitazenes, and/or other harmful contaminants; directs the commissioner of the office of alcoholism and substance abuse services, in cooperation with the commissioner of the department of health, to develop and conduct a public awareness and educational campaign on the dangers of medetomidine, benzodiazepine, nitazenes, and/or other harmful contaminants.
Last Action
REFERRED TO ALCOHOLISM AND SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS
2/17/2026