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HB 4413

Making syringe exchange service programs unlawful

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ryan Browning and 1 co-sponsor

West Virginia bill prohibits syringe exchange programs, eliminating harm-reduction services that prevent disease transmission among injection drug users.

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Bill Summary · HB 4413

Legislative bill overview

HB 4413 would prohibit syringe exchange service programs in West Virginia, making them unlawful. The bill reverses the state's current harm-reduction approach and would eliminate a public health intervention designed to reduce disease transmission among people who inject drugs.

Why is this important

Syringe exchange programs are evidence-based interventions that reduce transmission of HIV, hepatitis C, and other bloodborne pathogens. West Virginia has faced significant opioid-related public health challenges, and eliminating these programs could increase disease prevalence and associated healthcare costs while potentially conflicting with existing state harm-reduction policies.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health evidence: Major medical organizations (CDC, WHO, American Medical Association) support syringe exchanges as effective disease prevention; opponents argue they enable drug use
  • State policy consistency: West Virginia previously expanded harm-reduction services; this reversal creates uncertainty about long-term public health strategy
  • Resource allocation: Eliminating programs redirects funding but may increase costs elsewhere (disease treatment, emergency services) versus prevention spending

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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