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SB 36

Making syringe exchange services programs unlawful

2026 Regular Session

West Virginia bill would criminalize syringe exchange programs, eliminating needle distribution services despite evidence they reduce disease transmission among injection drug users.

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Bill Summary · SB 36

Legislative bill overview

SB 36 would prohibit syringe exchange programs (SEPs) in West Virginia, making it unlawful to operate services that distribute clean needles and syringes to people who use drugs. The bill eliminates a harm-reduction approach that has operated in some capacity in the state.

Why is this important

Syringe exchange programs are evidence-based public health interventions that reduce transmission of bloodborne diseases like HIV and hepatitis C among people who inject drugs. This policy directly impacts public health outcomes, healthcare costs, and vulnerable populations in communities affected by substance use disorder.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health evidence vs. policy preference: Major health organizations (CDC, WHO, NIH) support SEPs as effective disease prevention, but opponents argue they enable drug use or conflict with abstinence-focused approaches
  • Disease transmission rates: Eliminating SEPs may increase infectious disease burden in the state, potentially increasing treatment costs and strain on healthcare systems
  • Substance use disorder framework: Disagreement over whether harm reduction complements or undermines addiction treatment and recovery services
  • Vulnerable population impact: Disproportionate effects on unhoused individuals and people with low access to healthcare, raising equity concerns

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

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