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Bill Summary · SB 1433

Summary of SB 1433: Relating to Harm Reduction

Bill Number: SB 1433
Status: Act 106, effective May 29, 2025
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Senator Kouchi
Related Bill: HB 1114 (companion)

Purpose and Intent

SB 1433 aims to enhance public health and safety by implementing harm reduction strategies, particularly focusing on non-injection drug users. The bill establishes a framework for a Sterile Needle and Syringe Exchange Program and outlines provisions for liability protections for participants and providers involved in these harm reduction efforts.

Key Provisions

  1. Sterile Needle and Syringe Exchange Program:

    • Establishes a program to provide sterile needles and syringes to drug users to reduce the transmission of bloodborne diseases.
    • Encourages participation from non-injection drug users to broaden the scope of harm reduction.

  2. Liability Protections:

    • Provides legal protections for individuals and organizations that participate in or facilitate the needle exchange program, shielding them from civil liability under specific conditions.

  3. Needs-Based Distribution:

    • Implements a needs-based distribution model to ensure that resources and services are allocated effectively to communities most affected by drug use.

  4. Department of Health Involvement:

    • Assigns the Department of Health the responsibility for overseeing the implementation and operation of the needle exchange program, ensuring compliance with health standards and regulations.

Impact

  • Target Population: The bill primarily affects individuals who use drugs, particularly those who may be at risk of transmitting or contracting infectious diseases through shared needles.
  • Healthcare Providers: Medical professionals and organizations involved in harm reduction will benefit from liability protections, encouraging more participation in these programs.
  • Public Health Outcomes: By reducing the spread of infectious diseases, the bill aims to improve overall community health and reduce healthcare costs associated with treating drug-related illnesses.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • February 3, 2025: Passed Second Reading in the Senate, referred to the Judiciary and Government Committee (JDC).
  • April 30, 2025: Passed Final Reading in the Senate with amendments.
  • May 2, 2025: Enrolled to the Governor.
  • May 29, 2025: Signed into law as Act 106.

This legislation represents a significant step towards addressing the public health crisis related to drug use through harm reduction strategies, aiming to create a safer environment for individuals and communities.

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

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