OH HB602

Authorizes boards of health in Ohio to establish syringe exchange programs to reduce transmission of bloodborne diseases within their health districts.

Requires boards of health to consult with law enforcement, prosecutors, substance abuse treatment providers, community members, and relevant organizations before establishing a program.

Mandates that syringe exchange programs provide sterile syringes in exchange for used ones, bloodborne disease testing and counseling, drug abuse treatment referrals, and maintain anonymous recordkeeping systems.

Provides criminal liability protection for program employees and volunteers performing program duties, and for participants within 1,000 feet of a facility while carrying a wallet certificate proving active participation.

Requires boards of health to submit annual effectiveness reports to the Ohio Department of Health by July 1st, with the Department subsequently reporting summaries to the General Assembly standing committees on health by September 1st.